Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.

The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating 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 confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

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

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease 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 no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

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

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears often at events, however, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."