🔗 Share this article

The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

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

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are at times 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 a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

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

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

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. Since I have many companions who will help me learn 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. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear often at events, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."