A name synonymous with the British television industry, Pauline Quirke has graced our TV screens for over five decades. Best known for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the hit sitcom Birds of a Feather, Pauline's career has gone from strength to strength. According to The Sun, she has appeared in more than 60 TV and films, including Emmerdale and Casualty.
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In 2022, she was also awarded an MBE in the late Queen’s final Birthday Honours for her service to young people, the entertainment industry and charity. This came after she set up an academy—Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA)— in 2007. It now operates at more than 200 locations and has over 15,000 students.
Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis
Despite having a successful career over the years, Pauline has decided to step back from her ‘all professional and commercial duties’ due to a dementia diagnosis. In a heartfelt statement, Pauline's husband, Steve Sheen, revealed that she was diagnosed with dementia in 2021, reports The Guardian.
He shared that Pauline has decided to step away from all her professional duties to focus on her health and spend quality time with her family. His statement read:
It is with a heavy heart that I announce my wife Pauline's decision to step back from all professional and commercial duties due to her diagnosis of Dementia in 2021.
Pauline has been an inspiration through her work in the film and TV industry, her charity endeavours and as the founder of the very successful Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA).
Her talent, dedication, and vision have touched countless lives and will continue to do so through the legacy of her work and through PQA where her vision and guidance have facilitated many young peoples’ progression and interest in the Arts and enhanced their self-confidence.
Not much is known about why Pauline has taken the decision to step back now, after almost 4 years of her diagnosis.
We are deeply saddened to hear that actress Pauline Quirke has been diagnosed with dementia.
— Alzheimer's Research UK (@AlzResearchUK) January 21, 2025
Her husband Steve Sheen said that the Birds of a Feather star, 65, was diagnosed in 2021 and is stepping away from acting after a glittering 50-year career.
We’re sending our best… pic.twitter.com/9P5YuC5mLr
Linda Robson opens up about Pauline’s diagnosis
Amidst this, Loose Women star Linda Robson has broken her silence on her friend’s diagnosis. Linda and Pauline have been friends since they were 10 years old and starred together in Birds of a Feather as Sharon Theodopolopodous and Tracey Stubbs. The sitcom ran for nearly 30 years across BBC and ITV.
Sharing a few snaps of her with Pauline, Linda wrote on her Instagram:
This will be the only time I speak on behalf of my best friend, Pauline. For the past three years, I’ve been in close contact with her husband, Steve, and have spent time with Pauline.
It breaks my heart to see her endure such a terrible illness. Out of respect for her family and her privacy, I will not be discussing this matter further.
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Sources used:
The Sun: Birds Of A Feather star Pauline Quirke, 65, reveals dementia diagnosis and steps back from acting after 50-year career
The Guardian: Pauline Quirke, Birds of a Feather star, living with dementia
The Sun: Linda Robson breaks silence on friend Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis with emotional statement
