Linda Robson has revealed her friend and former Birds of a Feather co-star Pauline Quirke no longer remembers who she is, despite their 56-year friendship, as the actress continues to battle dementia.
Speaking at the TV Choice Awards on Monday evening, Robson shared a heartbreaking update on Quirke's condition, which was publicly announced last month.
"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," Robson said to Express.
The Loose Women star, 66, disclosed she has known about her friend's diagnosis for three years.
Robson revealed she maintains contact with Quirke through regular video calls, though conversations have become limited.
"I've been FaceTiming. There's not much conversation but it's just nice to see her face really," she told MailOnline at the awards ceremony.
Pauline Quirke (left) and Linda Robson (right) shot to fame on Birds of a Feather
PA
The actress explained she has kept in close contact with Quirke's husband Steve throughout this period.
"I kept in touch with her husband Steve the whole time and she's being really looked after," Robson said.
She noted the widespread sympathy she receives from people regarding Quirke's condition.
"Yeah people do say, sorry to hear about your friend," she added.
Linda Robson was speaking at the TV Choice Awards 2025
PA
Robson shared more details about the timeline of Quirke's condition at the awards ceremony.
"It [the diagnosis] was three years ago so I've lived with it for three years as the family have as well. She was so bright and so clever. It can happen to anybody can't it," she said.
Maurice Gran, who co-wrote Birds of a Feather, recently revealed how Quirke's condition has progressed.
"Since the diagnosis, her condition has gathered pace," Gran told The Mirror.
"She's still only 65 so your heart goes out to her. Initially, she felt she was beginning to lose her grip. Now, we understand she struggles to identify members of her own family," he added.
Robson and Quirke first met as 10-year-old students at Islington's Anna Scher Theatre School in North London, where they formed an instant connection.
The pair went on to achieve nationwide fame in 1989 through their roles as sisters in the beloved sitcom Birds of a Feather, with Quirke playing Sharon Theodopolopodous and Robson as Tracey Stubbs.
Last month, Quirke's husband Steve Sheen announced she would be "stepping away from all commercial and professional duties" following her 2021 dementia diagnosis.
The announcement came after a distinguished career spanning over 60 TV and film productions, including notable roles in Broadchurch, Emmerdale, and her Bafta-nominated performance in The Sculptress.
Despite the challenges, Robson remains hopeful about seeing her friend in person soon.
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"Hopefully I'm going to go and see her next week," she told MailOnline at the awards ceremony. "She's in the best place and she's got family looking after her."
The update comes as Quirke's son Charlie recently expressed gratitude for the public's support following the announcement of his mother's diagnosis.
"We, as a family are very moved and touched by all of them, and they have put a smile on all of our faces. We appreciate each and everyone of you," he wrote on Instagram.
Robson emphasised that while discussing the situation can be upsetting, she values the support shown for her friend.
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