United Kingdom, May 20 -- Dame Judi Dench is eternally grateful for her acting career.

The 90-year-old actress has been a fixture on both screen and stage since the 1950s but still feels fortunate to be in a profession that she loves.

Judi told My Weekly magazine: "I feel very lucky to be part of the two per cent of people who wanted to do something and were able to make a living at it.

"I never cease to be grateful of the fact that I am able to do a job that I really love - I never got over that. I think the key to happiness is gratitude."

Judi's ability to work has been limited by the macular degeneration that has badly affected her eyesight, although she remains "in love with life".

The former James Bond actress said: "Be thankful...