🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines. The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A Condition That 'Crushes' "It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period. On Friends and Exoneration The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," 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 vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK. Adapting to Change Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope." "It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions 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 Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."