🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines. The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting 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 set for broadcast over the festive period. On Friends and Exoneration The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow 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 full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back 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 cope." "It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script." Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."