🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses. The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine. Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about 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. Regarding Friends and Acquittals The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK. Adapting to Change She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope." "It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me 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 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 like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."