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The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing 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 the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."