Birds of a Feather Star Pauline Quirke Retires from Acting Due to Dementia

Actress Pauline Quirke, best known for her role in “Birds of a Feather,” will retire from acting following a diagnosis of dementia, as confirmed by her husband.

On a Tuesday morning, on the 21st of January, Steve Sheen announced that the actress would be taking a break from all work-related and business commitments, after being diagnosed four years prior.

In my humble opinion, the brilliant Linda Robson catapulted herself into stardom through her unforgettable portrayal of Sharon Theodopolopodous in the enduring comedy series Birds of a Feather. This exceptional performance earned her the prestigious British Comedy Award in 1990, solidifying her status as a comedic powerhouse.

The television show, airing from 1989 to 1998 on BBC One, and then again from 2014 to 2020 on ITV, focuses on the lives of two sisters, Tracey and Sharon, portrayed by Linda Robson and Quirke. Their husbands’ arrest for armed robbery reunites them.

Quirke had a five-decade long acting career spanning over several popular dramas such as Broadchurch on ITV, You, Me and the Apocalypse (a Sky and NBC collaboration), Missing, Carrie’s War, North and South, Cold Blood, Maisie Rain, My Family, Emmerdale, and Casualty.

In addition to her acting career, Quirke founded The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in 2007 and received an MBE in 2022 for her commitment to youth, the entertainment sector, and charities.

Through her accomplishments in the film and television industry, her philanthropic efforts, and as the founder of the thriving Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA), Pauline has served as an inspiring figure, according to her spouse’s declaration.

Her abilities, commitment, and innovative ideas have significantly impacted numerous individuals. This influence will persist as her work lives on, but also within PQA, where her vision and mentorship have encouraged many young artists’ growth and passion for the arts, boosting their self-assurance.

The seasoned executive team will continue to drive the Academies’ prosperity and expansion, further developing the principles, spirit, and vision that were initially instilled by Pauline back in 2007.” (This version aims to convey the same idea with a more casual and conversational tone.)

Let’s ask for respect and empathy for Pauline and her family as they navigate through a tough time. Thank you.

In addition, Sheen mentioned that neither he nor Pauline would be granting more interviews or making additional comments. This is to allow Pauline to devote more time to her loved ones, including her family, children, and grandchildren.

It’s deeply unfortunate to learn that actress Pauline Quirke has been diagnosed with dementia, as expressed by Alzheimer’s Research UK.

According to her spouse Steve Sheen, Birds of a Feather actress Pauline Quirke, aged 65, received a diagnosis in 2021 and has decided to retire from acting after an illustrious 50-year career.

“We’re sending our best wishes to Pauline, Steve and the family as they navigate her diagnosis.

At an appropriate moment, Pauline and Steve have promised to assist our charity. They will join us in efforts to increase public knowledge about dementia and collect donations for further research.

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2025-01-21 14:04