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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added 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," she remarked, explaining 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."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease 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 film work. "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 a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."