🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines. The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period. On Friends and Exoneration Dench also mentioned staying in contact 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 said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "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 challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script." Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie 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 charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."