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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

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

Her team verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added 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, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

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

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"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 help me learn the script."

Her last film appearance was a brief part 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 Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."