Pauline Quirke beamed during her last public appearance as she received an MBE from Prince William at Windsor Castle, two years before her dementia diagnosis was shared.
Her husband, Steve Sheen, has announced that the actress, 65, will retire from “all professional and commercial duties” following a diagnosis in 2021.
Although she's had roles in Emmerdale, Broadchurch and The Sculptress, Pauline is most recognised for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the ITV sitcom, Birds of a Feather.The show aired from October 1989 until December 1998, before being brought back by ITV bosses from January 2, 2014, to December 24, 2020.
Despite her health struggles, Pauline made a special appearance at Windsor Castle on February 1, 2023.The Hackney-born actress was awarded an MBE in the 2022 Birthday Honours for her services to young people, the entertainment industry and charity.