Actress Lesley Joseph recently provided an update on her colleague Pauline Quirke, who was diagnosed with dementia four years ago. Pauline, known for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous alongside Lesley in Birds of a Feather, decided to retire from acting earlier this year after battling the condition for three years.
During the Variety Club Showbusiness Awards, Lesley expressed concern for Pauline’s health and mentioned her intention to visit her soon. Lesley, aged 80, shared with Bella magazine that Pauline’s health has deteriorated since her dementia diagnosis, and she plans to see her in the coming week.
Pauline’s husband, Steve Sheen, confirmed her dementia diagnosis and retirement. He praised Pauline’s contributions to the entertainment industry, charity work, and the success of the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA). Steve announced Pauline’s decision to step back from professional duties due to her dementia diagnosis in 2021.
Before retiring, Pauline received an MBE for her outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry and charitable causes. The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts, which has expanded to 250 academies and over 15,000 students across the UK, expressed admiration for Pauline’s impact on young people through the performing arts.
Following Pauline’s retirement, Steve pledged support to Alzheimer’s Research UK. The charity’s chief executive, Hilary Evans-Newton, commended the family for their bravery in sharing Pauline’s diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about dementia. The charity looks forward to collaborating with Pauline and Steve to raise awareness and funds for dementia research in the future.