Linda Robson Shares Heartbreaking Update on Best Friend Pauline Quirke’s Battle With Dementia: “She Still Asks For Me”
Linda Robson has opened up about her best friend and long-time Birds of a Feather co-star Pauline Quirke, revealing an emotional update as Pauline continues to live with dementia.
The beloved actress, 65, was diagnosed in 2021, though the news only became public earlier this year when her husband, Steve Sheen, issued a statement confirming her condition. Now, Linda, 66, has revealed that despite Pauline’s health challenges, there are still moments of recognition and warmth.
Speaking on the Loose Women podcast, Linda said she recently received a call from Pauline’s son, Charlie, who shared a touching moment: “They got really excited when she said, ‘Where’s my mate Linda Robson?’ I got quite emotional when he told me.”
Linda and Pauline have known each other since they were 10 years old, forming a friendship that would eventually take them to stardom. “She’s always been an amazing actress and my best friend,” Linda said. “We shared so many magical moments — from going to VIP parties to starring in a show that changed our lives.”
But the journey hasn’t been easy. Linda admitted that she first noticed something was wrong three years ago when Pauline stopped returning her calls. It was during a lunch with co-star Lesley Joseph that the reality became clear. “We just knew something wasn’t right,” she said.
Since then, Pauline’s condition has sadly progressed. Earlier this year, show co-writer Maurice Gran confirmed that she was struggling to recognise even close family members. Linda added that while they still FaceTime, Pauline no longer speaks much or recognises her.
“I’ve known she was unwell for the last three years,” Linda said. “But I kept it secret out of respect for her family. It was up to them to decide when to go public.”
Despite the heartache, Linda remains hopeful and plans to visit Pauline soon. “She’s in the best place, surrounded by loved ones,” she said. “Just seeing her face is enough for me now.”
Pauline has since stepped away from all professional duties. Her husband’s statement described her as an “inspiration” whose work in television, charity, and the performing arts has touched countless lives. She is best known for her iconic role as Sharon in Birds of a Feather, and has appeared in over 60 TV and film productions including Emmerdale, Broadchurch, and the BAFTA-nominated The Sculptress.
In 2022, she was awarded an MBE by the late Queen for her contributions to entertainment and her work with young people through the Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA), which continues to operate with over 15,000 students across the UK.
While Pauline’s acting career has now come to a close, her legacy — both on screen and in the arts education world — remains powerful. Her family has asked for privacy as she spends time with her children and grandchildren.
