🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Verses. The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – 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 a magazine. Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even 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 hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays. On Friends and Exoneration The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease 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 any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn 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. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."