Loose Women have spoken out on Linda Robson’s absence from the panel following a health announcement concerning Pauline Quirke.
On Tuesday (January 21), Pauline’s other half, Steve Sheen, revealed with a heavy heart that his wife had been diagnosed with dementia and would be retiring from her acting career.
Steve, wed to the Birds of a Feather icon since 1996, disclosed that the diagnosis came in 2021. The Loose Women team, comprised of Ruth Langsford, Kéllé Bryan, Janet Street-Porter, and Jane Moore, dedicated part of the Tuesday episode to commend Pauline, recalling her time as a guest chair on the show.
Ruth divulged that show regular Linda, who famously joined Pauline on Birds of a Feather, was aware of her friend’s struggle for “some time” and would’ve shared more if not for her vacation. “Linda Robson, obviously great friends with Pauline, is actually away at the moment, otherwise she would have joined us today to talk about her friend. And obviously she has known for some time,” explained Ruth.
Previously, hubby Steve expressed in his statement: “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 continued, saluting the support they’ve received, “We are deeply grateful for the support of her peers, the public and the dedicated staff and Principals at PQA [Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts].”, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The family of Pauline, the star best known for leading the cast of Birds of a Feather alongside Linda and Lesley Joseph, are asking for privacy during what they describe as a challenging time. They shared, “We kindly request privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult period. Pauline just wants to spend time with her family, children and grandchildren.”
In showing their commitment to making a difference, Pauline’s family has vowed to continue their support for Alzheimer’s Research UK, collaborating with the charity to help fund essential research and increase awareness of dementia.
Birds of a Feather, which hilariously captures the lives of two sisters and their extravagant neighbour, was a hit on BBC One from 1989 to 1998 before being revived by ITV between 2014 and 2020. Pauline’s extensive career also boasts roles in Emmerdale, Broadchurch, Cold Blood, and Missing.
Loose Women airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 12.30pm