TV favourite Lorraine Kelly has delivered a touching message of support to Pauline Quirke following her health revelation.
The well-loved Birds of a Feather actress is retiring after an incredible half-century on stage and screen, due to being diagnosed with dementia.
On her show this Tuesday (January 21), Lorraine sent out heartfelt “love” to Pauline and her loved ones, acknowledging the significant impact she’s made in promoting awareness about the condition.
Lorraine shared, “This is really sad news this morning. Pauline Quirk, lovely Pauline, stepping down from acting after 50 years because she’s been diagnosed with dementia.”
With warmth, she added, “We just send all our love. She’s a brilliant woman, an absolute delight. I’ve met her many times and it’s just really sad. But she’ll be doing a lot of good, as she has in her whole life, and she’ll continue to do so,” reports the Daily Record.
Pauline’s spouse, Steve Sheen, released a statement confirming the news: “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 hailed Pauline’s influential legacy saying, “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 Quirk 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.”
Pauline Quirke’s iconic role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the hit British sitcom Birds of a Feather remains etched in the memories of fans. The show, which ran from 1989 to 1998 on BBC One, became a staple of British television.
It enjoyed such popularity that it got a new lease of life when ITV revived it in 2014, continuing until 2020.
Beyond her celebrated role in Birds of a Feather, Pauline has showcased her acting versatility in productions like Carrie’s War, North and South, Casualty, and Cold Blood.
Her portrayal of Sharon won her a British Comedy Award, marking Pauline’s status as a fan-favourite, alongside numerous nominations for other roles across her illustrious career.
In recognition of her contributions, in 2022, Pauline was honoured with an MBE in Queen Elizabeth II’s final Birthday Honours for her services to young people, the entertainment industry, and charitable causes.
Lorraine airs weekdays on ITV1 at 9am