🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines. The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period. On Friends and Exoneration Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid 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. 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 deal with it." "It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script." Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year 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. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."