Pauline Quirke's son's tearful confession as Birds of a Feather star battles dementia

By Michelle Marshall, Senior Showbiz Reporter

Pauline Quirke's family released a statement announcing her dementia diagnosis (Image: ITV)

This week, the Birds of a Feather star's family released a statement that shared Pauline Quirke was given a devastating dementia diagnosis in 2021. A sweet tribute from her son dedicated to his mum has recirculated online.

Back in 2023, Charlie, 30, was full of praise for his mother, 65, in her last public appearance - two years after her private diagnosis.

It comes after the former ITV star received an MBE from Prince William at Windsor Castle, with Charlie writing at the time: "To my beautiful mum. I can't start to tell you how proud I am of my mum getting her MBE today.

"Her services to charity, young people & the entertainment industry. To the most selfless, funniest and most caring person I know."

He signed off the sweet post: "Mad day to be honest. Here's to you mum."

Pauline Quirke pictured with her son Charlie (Image: Getty)

It was announced this week that following Pauline's diagnosis she will be stepping back from her work duties due to her dementia diagnosis.

Her husband Steve Sheen shared on Tuesday: "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 endeavours and as the founder of the very successful Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA).

Pauline Quirke received her MBE from Prince William in 2023 (Image: PA)

"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 and Steve 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.

He said: “We are very proud of what our family friend Scott Mitchell is doing with Alzheimer’s Research UK in his late wife Dame Barbara Windsor’s name. So, when we feel able, we will also align ourselves with the charity.”

With a career spanning over 50 years, Pauline remains one of the most recognisable faces in British TV comedy, with her most popular role on Birds of a Feather attracting audiences in the millions during its heyday.