Lorraine Kelly issues heartwarming message to Pauline Quirke after health admission

Lorraine Kelly has issued a heartwarming message to Pauline Quirke after her recent health admission.

It has been reported that the Birds of a Feather star is stepping down from her 50-year professional career after being diagnosed with dementia.

During Tuesday's (January 21) edition of Lorraine, the host sent her "love" to Pauline and her family, and detailed the "good" work the star has done to raise awareness.

"This is really sad news this morning. Pauline Quirke, lovely Pauline, stepping down from acting after 50 years because she's been diagnosed with dementia," Lorraine began.

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"We just send all our love. She's a brilliant woman, an absolute delight. I've met her many times and it's just really sad. But she'll be doing a lot of good, as she has in her whole life, and she'll continue to do so."

Lorraine Kelly
Lorraine Kelly paid tribute to Pauline Quirk after the Birds of a Feather star was diagnosed with dementia -Credit:ITV

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Pauline's husband Steve Sheen confirmed the news in a statement, which read: "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).

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"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 Quirke attends the National Television Awards 2012 at the 02 Arena on January 25, 2012 in London, England.
Pauline Quirke is stepping down from her 50-year professional career after being diagnosed with dementia -Credit:Getty Images

Pauline is best known for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in hit British sitcom Birds of a Feather, which ran from 1989 to 1998 on BBC One. It was revived on ITV in 2014, running until 2020.

Pauline has also appeared in Carrie's War, North and South, Casualty and Cold Blood.

Pauline notably earned a British Comedy Award for her fan-favourite role in Birds of a Feather, and has received multiple nominations for other projects.

In 2022, the star was awarded an MBE in the Queen Elizabeth II's final Birthday Honours for services to young people, the entertainment industry and charity.

Lorraine airs weekdays on ITV1 at 9am