🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges But Retains The Bard's Lines. The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times. Her team verified 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 devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays. Regarding Friends and Acquittals Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "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 failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK. Adapting to Change She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope." "It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script." Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role 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, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."