Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.

The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. 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," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

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."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue 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 film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. 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 teach me the script."

Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears 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. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."