Judi Dench Shares Recollection Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.

The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back 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 cope."

"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."

Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."