🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines. The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period. Regarding Friends and Acquittals The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it." "It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script." Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."