The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Verses.

The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

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

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

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

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."