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The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise 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 up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

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

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."