Veteran actress Pauline Quirke — beloved for her iconic role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the long-running sitcom Birds of a Feather — has revealed that she has been living with dementia since 2021.  Married to producer Steve Sheen since 1996, the 65-year-old performer announced she would step away from all professional and commercial duties as she focuses on her health and family.

Latest Update on Her Health

• The diagnosis of dementia, which was made in 2021, has only recently been disclosed publicly.

• Fellow actress and longtime friend Linda Robson — co-star for decades — has said that Pauline “doesn’t remember her grandchildren” and “isn’t going to remember me even though we’ve been friends 56 years.”

• Pauline’s husband Steve has requested privacy for their family during this difficult period and confirmed that Pauline’s priority now is to spend time with her children and grandchildren.

• Although Pauline is stepping back from screen acting, her legacy continues via the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA), which she founded and which now operates at over 250 locations across the UK. 

What This Means

Pauline’s decision highlights the harsh reality of young-onset dementia — a condition that affects people under the age of 65 and presents unique challenges.   For someone whose life has been defined by performance, creativity and public presence, stepping back so suddenly is profoundly difficult.

Yet it’s clear: she is choosing to protect her dignity, focus on her loved ones, and let her achievements speak for themselves. Friends and colleagues have expressed heartbreak — but also admiration for her courage.

In her own words

In his statement, Steve Sheen 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 added that Pauline “just wants to spend time with her family, children and grandchildren.”

A life of achievement

Pauline’s career spanned more than five decades. She starred in major TV series such as Broadchurch and Emmerdale, and earned an MBE in 2022 for her services to entertainment, young people and charity.

Final reflections

This announcement is both sad and significant. Sad, because a luminous career is drawing to a private close; significant, because Pauline’s openness helps shine a light on dementia — especially in younger people — and sparks essential conversations.

To Pauline: thank you for so many years of laughter, heartbreak, talent and inspiration. The world is sending strength to you, Steve and your family at this time.