The 65-year-old actress, best known for playing Sharon Theodopolopodous in the hit comedy sitcom Birds of a Feather, was diagnosed with the condition in 2021.

In a statement released today (Tuesday) Steve Sheen, who has been married to Pauline since 1996, said it was “with a heavy heart” that she was stepping back from her professional and commercial duties because of her diagnosis.

Steve added: “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].

“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.”

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.

Steve 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.”

Pauline remains one of the most recognisable stars of British comedy, with Birds of a Feather attracting nearly 20 million viewers at its height. The show premiered on the BBC from 1989 until 1998 before being resurrected by ITV in 2014 where it continued for another six years.

With a career spanning over 50 years, Pauline has starred in more than 60 TV and film productions, including a BAFTA-nominated performance in The Sculptress. She has also had roles in Broadchurch, Carrie’s War, North and South, Casualty, Cold Blood, My Family and Emmerdale.

Pauline was awarded an MBE in the late Queen’s final Birthday Honours, in recognition of her work with young people, contributions to entertainment and dedication to charitable causes.

If nothing changes, one in two people will be directly affected by dementia – either by developing the condition themselves, caring for someone with it, or both. Alzheimer’s Research UK is striving for a cure for dementia by revolutionising the way the condition is treated, diagnosed and prevented.

Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We are saddened to hear of Pauline’s diagnosis and send our best wishes to her, Steve and the wider family. The family should be praised for making the brave decision to make her diagnosis public, which will not only provide more freedom for them, but also raise such vital awareness of the condition.

“We’re so grateful that Pauline and Steve have pledged to support our work when the time is right. We look forward to working with them to raise further awareness of dementia and funds for research.”