Actor Pauline Quirke, best known for starring in the BBC sitcom Birds of a Feather, has dementia, her husband has announced. Steve Sheen confirmed in a statement that he was diagnosed several years ago and will no longer do any public work.
Mr Sheen said: “It is with heavy hearts that I announce my decision to step down from all professional and commercial duties in 2021 following my wife Pauline's diagnosis of dementia.''
“Pauline has been an inspiration in her work in the film and television industry, her philanthropic work and as the founder of the hugely successful Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA).”
“Her talent, dedication and vision have touched the lives of countless people and will continue to do so through the legacy of her work and PQA. Her vision and guidance have inspired the advancement and advancement of many young people. It has promoted an interest in the arts and increased their confidence.”
Quirke, 65, played the role of Sharon Theodopolopodus, one of two sisters whose husbands are sent to prison for armed robbery, in Birds of a Feather. The series ran for 10 years from 1989 to 1998, before being revived by ITV in 2014 for three more seasons, followed by two Christmas specials. Quirke won the British Comedy Award for Best Newcomer in a Television Comedy for this role in 1990. In 1997, she starred in Sculptress, the BBC adaptation of Minette Walters' crime drama, for which she received a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress.
The actor did not appear in Birds of a Feather's final Christmas special as he decided to focus more on PQA than acting. The academy, which she founded in 2007, operates in over 200 locations across the UK and has over 15,000 pupils. Mr Quirke was awarded an MBE in 2022 for his services to young people, the entertainment industry and charity work.
“We ask for privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult time,” Sheen said. “Pauline just wants to spend time with her family, her children and grandchildren.”
