🔗 Share this article

The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard 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 stated to the Radio Times.

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty 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 constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration 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 acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."