Pauline Quirke is a renowned English actress, celebrated for her extensive contributions to television and film over a career spanning more than five decades. Born on July 8, 1959, in Hackney, London, she began her acting journey as a child, appearing in various television series. Quirke gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Sharon Theodopolopodous in the long-running sitcom Birds of a Feather, which originally aired from 1989 to 1998 and was later revived from 2014 to 2017. Her performance in this role earned her a British Comedy Award and multiple nominations for the National Television Awards.
Early Life and Education
Pauline Quirke was born on July 8, 1959, in Hackney, London. She began her acting career at a young age, appearing in television series such as Dixon of Dock Green and the children’s television show Pauline’s Quirkes in 1976. Details about her formal education are not widely publicized, as her early entry into the acting world became the focal point of her developmental years.
Personal Life and Family
In 1996, Pauline Quirke married Steve Sheen. The couple has two children, including Charlie Quirke, who followed in his mother’s footsteps and pursued a career in acting.
The family has maintained a relatively private life, with Pauline occasionally sharing insights into her personal experiences through interviews.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Pauline Perpetua Quirke |
| Date of Birth | July 8, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Hackney, London, England |
| Occupation | Actress, Writer |
| Years Active | 1970–2025 |
| Spouse | Steve Sheen (married in 1996) |
| Children | Two, including Charlie Quirke |
| Parents | Not publicly disclosed |
| Height | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth (2024) | Not publicly disclosed |
Career
Pauline Quirke’s career is marked by versatility and longevity. She gained significant acclaim for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the sitcom Birds of a Feather, a role that showcased her comedic talent and endeared her to audiences. Beyond this iconic role, Quirke has demonstrated her range as an actress with performances in dramas such as The Sculptress, for which she received a BAFTA nomination, and the crime series Maisie Raine. Her portrayal of Susan Wright in the critically acclaimed series Broadchurch further solidified her reputation as a skilled dramatic actress.
In addition to her acting career, Pauline founded the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in 2007, aiming to provide quality performing arts education to young people across the UK. The academy has since expanded to numerous locations, reflecting her commitment to nurturing new talent.
Pauline Quirke’s contributions to the entertainment industry are both significant and enduring. From her early days as a child actress to her acclaimed performances in both comedic and dramatic roles, she has left an indelible mark on British television and film. Her dedication to the arts extends beyond her performances, as evidenced by her efforts in establishing the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts. As she steps back from the spotlight due to health reasons, her legacy continues to inspire and influence the next generation of performers.
Career Highlights Table
| Year | Event/Role | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1970 | Dixon of Dock Green | Made her television debut as a child actress. |
| 1976 | Pauline’s Quirkes | Starred in her own children\u2019s television show. |
| 1989 – 1998 | Birds of a Feather (Original Run) | Played Sharon Theodopolopodous, earning widespread recognition. |
| 1996 | The Sculptress | Portrayed Olive Martin, earning a BAFTA nomination. |
| 1998 – 1999 | Maisie Raine | Starred as Detective Sergeant Maisie Raine in this crime drama series. |
| 2000 – 2005 | Down to Earth | Played Faith Addis in this popular drama series. |
| 2007 | Founded the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) | Launched a network of performing arts schools across the UK. |
| 2013 – 2017 | Broadchurch | Played Susan Wright, a mysterious character in the critically acclaimed series. |
| 2014 – 2017 | Birds of a Feather (Revival) | Returned to her iconic role as Sharon Theodopolopodous. |
| 2020 | The Trouble with Maggie Cole | Appeared in this comedy-drama series. |
Latest News
As of January 21, 2025, Pauline Quirke has been diagnosed with dementia and has decided to step back from her professional duties. Her husband, Steve Sheen, released a heartfelt statement highlighting her remarkable 50-year career and contributions to the entertainment industry and charity, particularly through the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA). The family is grateful for public support and requests privacy during this challenging time.
Height and Physical Appearance
Specific details about Pauline Quirke’s height are not publicly disclosed. However, she has been known for her approachable demeanor and relatable on-screen presence. In recent years, Quirke made headlines for her significant weight loss, reportedly shedding nearly seven stone by making lifestyle changes, which she discussed in various interviews.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Official Link |
|---|---|
| Not publicly available |
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, specific details regarding Pauline Quirke’s net worth are not publicly disclosed. Throughout her extensive career in acting and her involvement in the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts, she has likely accumulated substantial earnings. However, exact figures remain private.
FAQS
What does Pauline Quirke do now?
Pauline Quirke is an English actress and former television personality. As of now, she is primarily focused on her acting career and runs the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts, which offers training in acting, dance, and singing to children. While she is not as active in mainstream television as she once was, she continues to work on projects related to her passion for the arts and education.
Why did Pauline and Linda fall out?
Pauline Quirke and Linda Robson, both famous for their roles on the sitcom Birds of a Feather, reportedly had a falling out. While the exact details of their dispute are not fully clear, there have been public comments about tensions between them. Pauline left the show in 2014, and although the reasons weren’t fully disclosed at the time, rumors of a rift and different professional priorities were speculated. Despite their history, Linda and Pauline have not gone into great detail about the cause of their falling out.
When was Pauline Quirke diagnosed with dementia?
There has been no credible public confirmation or news about Pauline Quirke being diagnosed with dementia. While there may have been speculation or rumors in the media, it is important to rely on verified information. As of the latest updates, there is no official confirmation regarding Pauline Quirke having dementia.
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