The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.

The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."