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The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight 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, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends 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. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."