🔗 Share this article

The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections 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 this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."