🔗 Share this article

The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but 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 the Radio Times.

Her team verified that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship 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.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow 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 disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, 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 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 Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."