🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Verses. The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even 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 still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading 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 Christmas holidays. Regarding Friends and Acquittals Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text." In recent months, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK. Adapting to Change She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope." "It's challenging 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 brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part 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, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."