Actress Lesley Joseph has provided an update on her colleague Pauline Quirke, known for their collaboration in the TV series Birds of a Feather. Pauline, who was diagnosed with dementia four years ago, recently announced her retirement from acting after battling the condition for three years.
Lesley, speaking at the Variety Club Showbusiness Awards, expressed concern about Pauline’s health and mentioned her intention to visit her in the near future. The 80-year-old actress shared with Bella magazine that Pauline’s health has deteriorated since her dementia diagnosis, and she plans to see her soon.
Confirming Pauline’s dementia diagnosis and retirement, her husband Steve Sheen acknowledged her significant 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, highlighting her inspiring career achievements.
Pauline, who received an MBE for her entertainment industry contributions, youth support, and charitable endeavors, has seen the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts grow substantially, now comprising 250 academies and nurturing over 15,000 students nationwide.
The academy expressed gratitude for Pauline’s impact and ethos of enhancing young lives through performing arts. Following Pauline’s retirement, Steve pledged support to Alzheimer’s Research UK, emphasizing their commitment to raising awareness and funding for dementia research.
Hilary Evans-Newton, CEO of the charity, commended the family for publicly sharing Pauline’s diagnosis, praising their decision to raise awareness and support research efforts. The charity looks forward to collaborating with Pauline and Steve to further promote understanding of dementia and advance research initiatives.