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The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with 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 acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found 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; 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

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."