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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

"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 necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason 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 no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."