Pauline Quirke’s son Charlie’s sweet tribute to the star has been revealed amid her battle with dementia.
The Birds of a Feather actress was diagnosed with the disease in 2021, her husband Steve Sheen revealed on Tuesday.
Sheen said that Quirke is now retiring from “all professional and commercial duties.”
It has now emerged that in February 2023 - two years after Quirke’s diagnosis - her son Charlie praised his “selfless” mother for her work and her achievements.
The 31-year-old shared a photo of the moment Quirke met Prince William at Windsor Castle when she was awarded an MBE for services to charity and the entertainment industry.
The actor wrote: "To my beautiful mum. I can't start to tell you how proud I am of my mum getting her MBE today.”
He went on: "Her services to charity, young people & the entertainment industry. To the most selfless, funniest and most caring person I know.
"Mad day to be honest. Here's to you mum."
Quirke was named as a recipient of the medal in the late Queen’s final Birthday Honours in 2022.
The Broadchurch star shares Charlie and daughter Emily 40, with her husband Sheen, who she married in 1996.
Earlier this week, Sheen revealed his wife’s diagnosis for the first time
“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 rose to fame as Sharon Theodopolopodous on the long-running sitcom Birds of a Feather, winning a British Comedy Award for the role.
Her other appearances include Broadchurch, Emmerdale and The Sculptress.
