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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Entertainment
Lisa McLoughlin

Linda Robson shares heartbreaking update on Pauline Quirke following dementia diagnosis

Linda Robson has opened up about her ongoing support for close friend and Birds of a Feather co-star Pauline Quirke, after it was revealed that Quirke had been diagnosed with dementia.

Last month, Quirke’s husband, Steve Sheen, disclosed that the beloved 65-year-old actress has been battling dementia since 2021. The condition, which impacts memory, reasoning, and cognitive abilities, has led the actress to step away from all commercial and professional activities.

The Loose Women star, 66, shared that she has been keeping in touch with Quirke, 65, through phone calls and FaceTime, despite the challenges in communication.

“I've been FaceTiming. There's not much conversation but it's just nice to see her face really,” she said.

Speaking to MailOnline at Monday’s TV Choice Awards, Robson also spoke about the outpouring of support she has received from people expressing sympathy for Quirke’s situation.

“Yeah, people do say, ‘sorry to hear about your friend’,” she noted.

Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, Robson remains hopeful about seeing Quirke soon. “She’s in the best place and she’s got family looking after her. Hopefully, I’m going to go and see her next week,” she added.

Robson at Monday’s TV Choice Awards (Getty Images)

Robson and Quirke became household names playing sisters Tracey Stubbs and Sharon Theodopolopodous in the iconic BBC One sitcom Birds of a Feather, which first aired in 1989.

Last week, reports emerged that Quirke’s condition has deteriorated to the point where she can no longer recognise her loved ones.

Maurice Gran, co-creator of Birds of a Feather, also spoke about Pauline’s declining health, explaining how the disease has progressed.

“Since the diagnosis, her condition has gathered pace,” he told The Mirror. “She’s still only 65 so your heart goes out to her. Initially, she felt she was beginning to lose her grip. Now, we understand she struggles to identify members of her own family.”

Quirke’s son, Charlie, recently expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support following the public revelation of his mother’s diagnosis.

He shared a heartfelt message on his Instagram Stories, posting a photo with Quirke and admitting he had been “moved” by the outpouring of kind messages he had received. This marked the first time he had spoken publicly about her condition.

He penned in the caption: “Hi all, I just wanted to say a massive thank you to all of you for your messages of support, kind words about my beautiful mum and stories you have.

“We, as a family are very moved and touched by all of them, and they have put a smile on all of our faces. We appreciate each and everyone of you. Thank you.”

Her husband, Steve Sheen, confirmed last month that she had been living with dementia for four years and would be stepping away from all professional commitments.

Quirke pictured with her husband Steve Sheen in 2017 (Getty Images)

“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 said.

“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).

“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 peoples’ progression and interest in the Arts and enhanced their self-confidence.”

Quirke’s final public appearance was a moment of triumph, receiving an MBE at Windsor Castle for her outstanding contributions to young people, entertainment, and charity. The TV star beamed with pride as Prince William presented her with the honour in February 2023.

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