Linda Robson has spoken publicly about the heartbreaking dementia diagnosis of her long-time friend and Birds of a Feather co-star, Pauline Quirke. 

Last month, Pauline’s husband, Steve Sheen, confirmed that the beloved actress had been living with the condition since 2021, marking a difficult chapter in her life.

Fans of Birds of a Feather will fondly remember Pauline as Sharon Theodopolopodous, one-half of the iconic duo alongside Linda’s character, Tracey Stubbs. 

The two actresses starred in the hit sitcom, which first aired in 1989 and followed the lives of two sisters navigating life after their husbands were imprisoned for armed robbery.

A Bond Spanning Decades

Linda and Pauline’s friendship dates back to childhood. The pair first met when they were just ten years old, attending Islington’s Anna Scher Theatre School. 

Their connection deepened over the years, eventually leading to them starring together in Birds of a Feather, a show that would become a defining moment in their careers. The sitcom originally aired on BBC One before being revived on ITV in 2014, with the duo reprising their iconic roles alongside co-star Lesley Joseph.

Their bond was evident both on and off-screen, and Linda has often spoken about how close they have remained throughout the years. In a past appearance on Loose Women, Linda fondly recalled how they had “clicked” from the moment they met, describing their friendship as being “practically from the womb.”

Pauline’s Diagnosis and Linda’s Support

Pauline’s diagnosis has been an emotional journey for those closest to her. Speaking exclusively to The Mirror at the TV Choice Awards, Linda revealed that she had known about her friend’s condition for the past three years. While the news has been difficult, she has remained in close contact with Pauline’s husband, ensuring that she is well cared for during this challenging time.

“I knew about Pauline’s diagnosis for three years and it has been tough,” Linda shared. “I kept in touch with her husband Steve the whole time, and she’s being really looked after.”

Despite the challenges posed by Pauline’s condition, Linda continues to keep in touch with her friend regularly. “We FaceTime a lot but she doesn’t say too much. We’re always in contact, and I’m seeing her next week,” she added. While the situation is difficult to discuss, Linda appreciates the outpouring of support from fans and the entertainment industry. “It’s nice to see the support for her, but it can be upsetting to talk about it.”

Pauline’s Acclaimed Career

Pauline Quirke has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning decades, earning recognition for her incredible versatility as an actress. While she is best known for Birds of a Feather, her work extends far beyond comedy. She received a BAFTA nomination for her chilling performance in The Sculptress and left a lasting impression with her role as the mysterious Susan Wright in Broadchurch.

Her extensive television career includes appearances in Emmerdale, Casualty, North and South, Cold Blood, Thieving Headmistress, My Family, and You, Me and the Apocalypse, among many others. With over 60 TV and film credits to her name, Pauline has solidified herself as one of Britain’s most beloved performers.

A Private Battle and a Request for Privacy

When announcing Pauline’s diagnosis, her husband, Steve Sheen, expressed deep appreciation for the support she has received while also requesting privacy for their family. “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 stated.

Steve reflected on her illustrious career, highlighting her contributions to both comedy and drama. He also acknowledged the support from colleagues, fans, and the team at the Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA), which she co-founded to nurture young acting talent.

The family’s priority now is for Pauline to spend quality time with her loved ones, including her children and grandchildren. Steve emphasized that they will not be participating in interviews or making further statements at this time. “We kindly request privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult period,” he said.

A Lasting Legacy

Pauline Quirke’s impact on British television remains undeniable. She brought laughter to millions through Birds of a Feather while showcasing her dramatic talents in some of the country’s most gripping television dramas. Her work has left an indelible mark on the industry, and the love and admiration she continues to receive from fans and fellow actors alike reflect her incredible contributions.

For Linda Robson, the diagnosis of her closest friend is undoubtedly painful, but she remains committed to supporting Pauline and cherishing the decades of memories they’ve shared. As Pauline steps away from public life, she does so with the love and gratitude of those who have admired her work and the unwavering support of those who have been privileged to call her a friend.

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