🔗 Share this article

The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.

Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed staying in contact with 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 said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue 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 acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

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

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role 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, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."