🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Challenges But Retains The Bard's Verses. The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard 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 the Radio Times. Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close. A Condition That 'Crushes' "It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period. Regarding Friends and Acquittals The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue 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 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 any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script." Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."