Linda Robson has opened up about the devastating impact of her close friend Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis, 

revealing that the Birds of a Feather star no longer recognizes her or her own children. 

The heartbreaking admission comes as Pauline, 65, steps away from the public eye after battling the disease for four years.

Speaking at the TV Choice Awards, Linda, 66, shared that she has known about Pauline’s diagnosis 

for the past three years but had kept it private out of respect for her longtime friend. “It’s very sad. We’ve been best friends since we were ten,” she said. 

“She doesn’t know who anybody is. She doesn’t know who I am or who her kids are.”

The Loose Women star also expressed her distress over the condition, candidly stating that she would “rather get cancer” than dementia because “at least then you’ve got a chance.”

Pauline, who rose to fame alongside Linda in the iconic British sitcom Birds of a Feather, has been supported by her husband, Steve Sheen, whom she married in 1996. The couple shares a son, Charlie, 30, while Pauline also has a daughter, Emily, 40, from a previous relationship.

Despite her heartbreaking decline, Linda has made efforts to stay connected with her dear friend. She revealed that she has been privately supporting Pauline by making calls and video chatting with her. “I’ve been FaceTiming her. There’s not much conversation, but it’s just nice to see her face,” she explained.

The entertainment world has also rallied around Pauline, with fans and fellow actors expressing their condolences and support. Linda acknowledged the kindness she has received from the public, saying, “People do say, ‘Sorry to hear about your friend.’” She added that she hopes to visit Pauline soon, emphasizing that she is “in the best place” with her family caring for her.

Pauline’s husband, Steve, confirmed her diagnosis last month, revealing that she had been living with dementia since 2021. In his statement, he announced that she would be stepping away from all professional and commercial commitments. “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,” he wrote.

Steve highlighted Pauline’s incredible career, which has spanned more than five decades and included roles in Broadchurch, Emmerdale, and The Sculptress, for which she received a BAFTA nomination. He also praised her contributions to the performing arts, particularly through the Pauline Quirke Academy, which she founded in 2007. The academy has helped thousands of aspiring actors build their confidence and skills.

Maurice Glen, who co-wrote Birds of a Feather, shared his sorrow over Pauline’s condition, stating that her illness had “gathered pace” in recent months. “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.”

Reports of a rift between Linda and Pauline emerged in 2017 when Pauline left Birds of a Feather, and her absence from the 2020 Christmas special fueled further speculation. However, Linda has dismissed rumors of any ongoing feud. “There is no feud. We’ve all been mates,” she insisted. “I feel lucky that I’m still doing Loose Women after 20 years.”

Pauline’s son Charlie recently took to Instagram to express gratitude for the outpouring of support. “We, as a family, are very moved and touched by all of your kind words,” he wrote. “They have put a smile on all of our faces. We appreciate each and every one of you.”

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Linda also paid tribute to her best friend, writing, “This will be the only time I speak on behalf of Pauline. It breaks my heart to see her endure such a terrible illness.”

Pauline’s diagnosis has deeply affected those closest to her, but her legacy in the entertainment industry and beyond remains undeniable. Through her contributions to television and her dedication to nurturing young talent, she has left an indelible mark on British entertainment. As she focuses on spending time with her family, friends and fans continue to hold her in their thoughts.

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