🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses. The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her team verified 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 Condition That 'Crushes' "It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays. On Friends and Exoneration The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it." "It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script." Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as 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."