🔗 Share this article

The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme 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 has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's difficult 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; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."