Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.

The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.

Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."