🔗 Share this article

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

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

Her team verified that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

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

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back 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 any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

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