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The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight 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 swear to you," she told the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch 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."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "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 help me learn the script."

Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."