Lorraine Kelly has sent a touching message to Pauline Quirke following her recent health revelation.
The Birds of a Feather icon is retiring from her 50-year career in the limelight after being diagnosed with dementia.
On Tuesday’s (January 21) show, Lorraine expressed her “love” towards Pauline and her relatives, praising the “good” Pauline has done in raising awareness.
“This is really sad news this morning. Pauline Quirke, lovely Pauline, stepping down from acting after 50 years because she’s been diagnosed with dementia,” said Lorraine.
“We just send all our love. She’s a brilliant woman, an absolute delight. I’ve met her many times and it’s just really sad. But she’ll be doing a lot of good, as she has in her whole life, and she’ll continue to do so.”
Pauline’s spouse Steve Sheen released a statement confirming the news: “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.
“Pauline has been an inspiration through her work in the film and TV industry, her charity efforts, and as the creator of the highly successful Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA).
“Her talent, dedication, and vision have touched countless lives and will continue to do so through the legacy of her work and through PQA where her vision and guidance has facilitated many young peoples’ progression and interest in the Arts and enhanced their self-confidence.”
Pauline, famed for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the beloved British sitcom Birds of a Feather, which graced our screens from 1989 to 1998 on BBC One and made a comeback on ITV from 2014 to 2020, has been making waves beyond acting, reports the Daily Record.
Aside from her iconic stint in Birds of a Feather, Pauline has showcased her talents in Carrie’s War, North and South, Casualty, and Cold Blood.
Not only did she bag a British Comedy Award for her much-loved character in Birds of a Feather, but Pauline has also been in the running for several other accolades.
In recognition of her contributions to the arts and her charitable efforts, Pauline was honoured with an MBE in Queen Elizabeth II’s final Birthday Honours list in 2022, celebrating her service to young people, the entertainment industry, and charity.
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