Pauline Quirke, renowned actress and beloved star of the sitcom Birds of a Feather, has been diagnosed with dementia, her husband, Steve Sheen, has confirmed.
The 65-year-old actress, known for her iconic portrayal of Sharon Theodopolopodous alongside Linda Robson’s Tracey, has decided to step away from acting and other professional commitments due to her condition. This news marks a poignant moment in the life of an entertainer whose career has spanned decades, bringing joy and laughter to countless fans.
In a heartfelt statement, Sheen expressed the family’s gratitude for the support they have received. “It is with a heavy heart that Pauline is stepping back from her professional and commercial duties because of her diagnosis,” he shared.
He also thanked her peers, the public, and the staff at the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) for their unwavering support. He added, “We kindly request privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult period. Pauline just wants to spend time with her family, children, and grandchildren.”
Quirke, who has been married to Sheen since 1996, shares two children with him, including their son Charlie, who is also an actor. The family has expressed their commitment to supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK, a charity dedicated to raising awareness and funding for dementia research.
Their decision is inspired by the work of Scott Mitchell, who continues to honor the legacy of his late wife, Dame Barbara Windsor, through similar efforts. “We are very proud of what Scott is doing in Dame Barbara’s name,” Sheen said. “When we feel able, we will also align ourselves with the charity.”
Pauline Quirke’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. She began acting as a child, later earning her own television show as a teenager, Pauline’s Quirkes. Her professional partnership with Linda Robson was solidified in 1989 when they starred together in Birds of a Feather.
The series, centered on two mismatched sisters navigating life after their husbands are jailed for armed robbery, became a cultural touchstone, attracting nearly 20 million viewers at its peak. The show’s success was further bolstered by the third lead, Lesley Joseph, who played the nosy neighbor Dorien Green.
After the original run of Birds of a Feather on the BBC from 1989 to 1998, the show was revived by ITV in 2014, running for six more years. However, Quirke did not return for the 2020 Christmas special, marking the end of her involvement in the series.
Beyond her sitcom success, Quirke built a rich and varied career, appearing in over 60 television and film productions, including roles in Broadchurch, Carrie’s War, North and South, Casualty, Cold Blood, My Family, and Emmerdale.
Her work has been widely recognized and celebrated. In 1990, she won a British Comedy Award for her role in Birds of a Feather and was nominated for a BAFTA in 1996 for her powerful performance as a convicted murderess in The Sculptress.
She also explored her comedic versatility in the 1995 BBC documentary series Jobs for the Girls, where she and Robson humorously tried out various professions.
In addition to her acting achievements, Quirke made a significant impact on young talent through the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts, which she founded in 2007.
Based in Buckinghamshire, the academy offers classes in singing, dancing, and acting for children aged four to eighteen and operates across the country. Following the news of her diagnosis, the academy released a statement saying, “We are deeply moved by the messages we have received. It has been wonderful to see how many lives Pauline has touched through her work.”
The academy also reassured students and parents that teaching would continue as normal, ensuring that Quirke’s legacy of inspiring young performers lives on. Quirke was honored with an MBE in 2022 in recognition of her contributions to entertainment, her dedication to charitable causes, and her work with young people. This accolade underscored her status as a cherished figure in British culture.
Dementia affects millions worldwide, with one in two people experiencing its impact either directly or through caring for someone with the condition, according to Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Quirke’s diagnosis brings renewed attention to the importance of research and awareness in addressing this challenging condition. Her family’s commitment to supporting these efforts reflects their determination to make a positive impact, even amidst personal hardship.
The news of Pauline Quirke’s diagnosis has been met with an outpouring of love and support from fans, colleagues, and the wider public. Many have shared their admiration for her talent, resilience, and dedication to her craft. Her ability to bring laughter and light to audiences over the years remains a testament to her remarkable career and enduring spirit.
As she steps back to focus on her health and family, Quirke’s legacy continues to inspire. Her work on-screen and off has touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and beyond. Fans and supporters join her family in honoring her achievements and wishing her peace and happiness in the years ahead.
Pauline Quirke’s journey exemplifies the power of artistry, resilience, and compassion. As she navigates this new chapter, her story serves as a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on their community and the world at large. Her contributions will undoubtedly continue to resonate for generations to come.
