Pauline Quirke’s battle with dementia has taken a heart-wrenching turn as she can no longer recognise her family, according to her Birds of a Feather colleague. Her husband Steve Sheen had revealed last month that his wife was diagnosed with the condition in 2021, despite the public only now learning of her diagnosis.
At 65, the beloved former Emmerdale and Birds of a Feather actress faces the devastating impact of dementia, which Birds of a Father writer Maurice Gran described to the Mirror as having “gathered pace” following her diagnosis. “Since the diagnosis, her condition has gathered pace,” shared Maurice, adding, “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.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Following the announcement of her condition last month, Pauline’s son Charlie broke his silence on social media to express gratitude for the overwhelming public support. He posted an affectionate snapshot with his mum, expressing in a heartfelt note, “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.”
Last month, Pauline Quirke’s husband Steve shared the sad news that the actress would be retiring from the spotlight. He also disclosed “with a heavy heart” that she was diagnosed with Dementia four years ago, reports the Mirror.
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In his statement, Steve said: “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 honoured her career by saying: “In drama, her BAFTA-nominated role in The Sculptress, was outstanding, as was her role as the mysterious Susan Wright in ITV’s Broadchurch.”
He continued to praise her versatility, noting: “Demonstrating her acting versatility, she also starred or appeared in more than 60 TV and film productions, including Carrie’s War, North and South, Casualty, Cold Blood, Thieving Headmistress, My Family, You, Me and the Apocalypse, and of course Emmerdale.”
Steve concluded by asking for privacy for Pauline and their family during these tough times, stating: “We kindly request privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult period. For the time being we will not be engaging in interviews or making further statements, since Pauline just wants to spend time with her family, children and grandchildren. We are deeply grateful for the support from her peers, the public, and the dedicated staff and Principals at PQA (Pauline Quirke Academy).”
Despite her ongoing health struggle, Pauline made her last public appearance in 2023 when she attended a special ceremony at Windsor Castle on February 1.
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Dementia UK.
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