The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.

The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

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

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. 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 actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive 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 acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."