Pauline Quirke, beloved for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the iconic sitcom Birds of a Feather, has been diagnosed with dementia. Her husband, Steve Sheen, shared the news with the public, confirming that the actress will step away from all commercial and professional duties to focus on her health.
The 65-year-old actress, who also starred in Emmerdale and Broadchurch, received her dementia diagnosis in 2021. Her decision to step back from public life comes after years of dedication to the entertainment industry and her charity work. Quirke’s last public appearance was in February 2023 when she was awarded an MBE by Prince William for her services to young people, entertainment, and charity.
In a heartfelt statement, Steve Sheen expressed: “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).”
He continued, “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 helped many young people progress in the Arts and enhanced their self-confidence.”
Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, also shared her thoughts, saying, “We are saddened to hear of Pauline’s diagnosis and send our best wishes to her, Steve, and the wider family. The family should be praised for making the diagnosis public, which will not only provide more freedom for them but also raise such vital awareness of the condition.”
Evans-Newton added, “We’re so grateful that Pauline and Steve have pledged to support our work when the time is right. We look forward to working with them to raise further awareness of dementia and funds for research.”