Pauline Quirke Steps Away From Acting Due to Health
Beloved actress Pauline Quirke, renowned for her role in the hit sitcom Birds of a Feather, has taken a step back from the limelight after being diagnosed with dementia, reports her husband, Steve Sheen.
With emotions running high, Steve expressed, “Announcing Pauline’s choice to withdraw from professional and commercial ventures due to her dementia diagnosis in 2021 is truly heavy for us.” At the time of diagnosis, they chose not to go public with the news.
Pauline has graced the entertainment industry not just with her acting prowess but also through her charitable activities and the founding of the well-received Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA), according to Mr. Sheen.
Praising Pauline’s “immense talent, unwavering dedication, and creative vision,” he noted how her drama academy has “made a significant impact on the lives of many.” The academy remains a beacon, nurturing young talents while instilling confidence in them.
At 65, Pauline is cherished as Sharon Theodopolopodous from Birds of a Feather, bagging a British Comedy Award back in 1990. Her on-screen chemistry with Linda Robson as they portrayed sisters in hilarious situations captivated audiences over decades.
The show first aired on BBC One from 1989 to 1998, and later revived on ITV from 2014 until 2020. It centered around the antics of Tracey and Sharon as they navigate life post their husbands’ arrests for robbery.
Linda Robson shares a special bond with Pauline, meeting her in their younger days at a drama school in north London. The duo also shared the screen in the ITV show Shine On Harvey Moon, a post-war drama set in London’s East End, running from 1982 to 1985.
Pauline’s array of accolades includes a Bafta nomination in 1997 for portraying Olive Martin in the BBC drama The Sculptress, a gripping adaptation of Minette Walters’ psychological thriller.
Additionally, she received four National Television Award nominations, three courtesy of her performance in Birds of a Feather, and another for her role in the BBC drama Down to Earth in 2002.
Her diverse acting portfolio further boasts of roles in Maisie Raine, a detective drama on BBC from 1998 to 1999, alongside appearances in the TV drama Broadchurch and as Hazel Rhodes in the popular series Emmerdale during 2010-2012.
In recognition of her dedication to the entertainment sector, young individuals, and various charities, Pauline was honored with an MBE in 2022.
PQA, with about 250 centers supporting over 15,000 students nationwide, continues to operate, proudly upholding Pauline’s vision and ideals.
The overwhelming arrival of heartfelt messages has deeply moved the academy. On Instagram, they fondly wrote about Pauline’s incredible influence over her prolific 50-year career in film and television.
Since its inception in 2007, PQA has remained steadfast in enhancing lives through the performing arts, exemplifying Pauline and Steve’s core aspirations.
Amid these personal revelations, Mr. Sheen humbly asked for privacy to allow his wife to relish moments with family, particularly their children and grandchildren.
Having exchanged vows in 1996, Pauline and Steve have both pledged to support Alzheimer’s Research UK, furthering fundraising efforts and promoting awareness.
Expressing support, Hilary Evans-Newton, CEO of Alzheimer’s Research UK, lauded their courageous choice of going public, which not only liberates their family but significantly raises awareness about dementia.
Dr. Hilda Hayo, CEO of Dementia UK emphasized: “By publicly discussing her condition, Pauline plays a pivotal role in heightening awareness regarding young onset dementia, potentially encouraging others to seek assistance concerning their neurological health.”
Steve also commended the work of Scott Mitchell, late Dame Barbara Windsor’s spouse, who has actively contributed to the cause post her dementia diagnosis.
Pauline’s courage and enduring influence, both on and off-screen, illuminate the conversations surrounding dementia.
The narrative of actress Pauline Quirke undeniably embodies resilience and heartfelt influence.
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