🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines. The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 this week, 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 another programme airing over the festive period. On Friends and Exoneration The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges 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 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 primary reason of sight loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. 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 small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."