Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph makes stern Pauline Quirke dementia refusal
Lesley Joseph, who played the role of Dorien Green in the classic sitcom, said that her friend's illness was a "private" matter.
GMB: Lesley Joseph 'won't discuss' Pauline Quirke's diagnosis
A former co-star of Birds of a Feather star Pauline Quirke has said that she won't talk about the actress' dementia diagnosis. Lesley Joseph, who played the role of Dorien Green in the classic sitcom, said that her friend's illness was a "private" matter as she refused to comment on it.
Speaking to Charlotte Hawkins and Rob Rinder on ITV's Good Morning Britain, Charlotte said that Pauline's diagnosis was a "terrible shock" to which Linda replied: "What a wonderful actress she is and what joy she has given.
"Not just in Birds of a Feather but in the Sculptress where she was really scary, and Broadchurch and Emmerdale. I just take my hat off to Pauline, she's amazing."
She added: "But I won't talk about her at the moment with her illness because that's private." Charlotte responded, saying: "I completely understand."
Lesley explained that it is not the first time that she has watched a loved one suffer with dementia. She shared: "I lived with dementia through my mum, who lived till near 104. In her 90s she was still playing tennis.
"She was so full of life as she got older. She was an amazing character."
In a poignant statement released in January, Pauline's husband, TV producer Steve Sheen, announced her decision to retire as he shared news of her diagnosis.
He said: "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."
Concluding with a request for understanding, he shared: "We kindly request privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult period.
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"For the time being we will not be engaging in interviews or making further statements, since Pauline just wants to spend time with her family, children and grandchildren."
Meanwhile, following the announcement, Linda Robson who also starred on Birds of a Feather, spoke out about her dear friend. In a heartfelt interview with Express.co.uk.
She revealed: "I have noticed a real difference with her; she doesn't remember her grandchildren, so she's not going to remember who I am even though we've been friends 56 years. It really is sad."
