🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines. The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her team verified that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. 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 assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it." "It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script." Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye Dench still appears often at events, however, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."