‘Birds of a Feather’ star Pauline Quirke shares dementia diagnosis
British actor Pauline Quirke, best known for her role in the hit comedy Birds of a Feather, has announced her retirement from acting due to dementia.
Quirke’s dementia diagnosis has been confirmed by her husband, Steve Sheen, who revealed that she has been living with the disease for several years and that she will no longer be making any public appearances.
Sheen said in a statement: “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.”
He also reflected on her career, including setting up the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in 2007, which now operates in over 200 locations across the United Kingdom. He added, “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).”
Sheen added: “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 has facilitated many young people’s progression and interest in the arts, and enhanced their self-confidence.”
“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,” he concluded.
Quirke is best known for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in Birds of a Feather alongside Linda Robson and Lesley Joseph. The sitcom initially ran between 1989 and 1998 before being renewed for a further three seasons in 2014, which also featured Quirke’s real-life son, Charlie.
She was awarded an MBE in 2022 for her services to the performing arts and her work in making them more accessible to young people across the country.
Other notable roles in her television career include Broadchurch, Skins and Emmerdale. Quire also appeared in several films, including David Lynch’s The Elephant Man in 1980.
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