The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, 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 issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Dench still appears often at events, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."