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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.

Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty 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 constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive 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 deal with it."

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

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part 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.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events 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 finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."