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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision 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 the Radio Times.

Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."