Beloved Actress Pauline Quirke Battles Dementia at 66

In November 2025, the family of renowned actress Pauline Quirke spoke out about her dementia diagnosis, which came in 2021 when she was 66 years old. Quirke, best known for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the long-running sitcom "Birds of a Feather," was also a BAFTA-nominated actress and was made an MBE in 2022 for her contributions to the entertainment industry, young people, and charities.

Quirke's husband, Steve Sheen, and her son, Charlie, expressed "disbelief" at the diagnosis, initially thinking it was "long COVID" or the flu. However, they now understand that dementia can affect people of any age, including those in their 50s and 40s. While the family is unsure of the exact stage of Quirke's condition, they describe her as "still funny, talking, and happy."

To honor Quirke's legacy and raise awareness about dementia, Charlie is planning a 140-kilometer fundraising walk that will take him to places that shaped his mother's life, including her drama academy headquarters. He says this is part of his mother's "legacy" and a way to "nurture the next generation of young actors," which was her passion.

The family hopes that by sharing Quirke's story, they can help increase understanding and support for those affected by dementia, a condition that can be devastating but also one that Quirke continues to face with her trademark strength and courage.