The actress Pauline Quirke will step away from public life after she was diagnosed with dementia, her husband has revealed.
Steve Sheen announced that the Birds of a Feather star, 65, would retire from "all professional and commercial duties" after being diagnosed with the disease in 2021.
In a statement, Sheen revealed his wife's diagnosis for the first time.
"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 said.
"Pauline has been an inspiration through her work in the film and TV industry, her charity endeavours, and as the founder of the very 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."
The celebrated actress rose to fame for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous on the long-running sitcom Birds of a Feather, winning a British Comedy Award for the role.
The Londoner's other appearances include Broadchurch, Emmerdale, and The Sculptress.
In 2022, Quirke was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), recognising her dedication to charitable causes, contributions to the entertainment industry, and work with young people.
"Her acting career has now come to a close, but PQA, with its network of approximately 250 academies and over 15,000 students across the UK, remains robust and will continue to operate as normal in accordance with Pauline's ideology," Sheen said.
"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."
The couple have "pledged future support to Alzheimer's Research UK and will be working alongside the charity to drive funds for research and awareness of dementia", the charity said.
Sheen, who has been married to Quirke since 1996, praised the work Scott Mitchell, the husband of late actress Barbara Windsor, has done with Alzheimer's Research UK in her name and added: "When we feel able, we will also align ourselves with the charity."
Source: Press Association
