🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines. The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine. Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, 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 Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue 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't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "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 haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script." Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod 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. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."