Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.

The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

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

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed 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 effective stepping back 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 a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because 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 more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."