Pauline Quirke’s husband recently announced that she is battling dementia, four years after she was first diagnosed.

Pauline Quirke’s husband announced that she is battling dementia (Image: PA)

Pauline Quirke’s battle with dementia has reached a heartbreaking stage as the actress can no longer recognise her own family, according to a close friend.

Last month, Pauline’s husband, TV producer Steve Sheen, announced that the Birds of a Feather star is living with dementia, four years after her original diagnosis.

Pauline, 65, is now sadly losing her memories of loved ones due to the devastating impact of the condition.

Maurice Gran, who co-created the award-winning sitcom Birds of a Feather, told The Mirror: “Since the diagnosis, her condition has gathered pace.

“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.”

READ MORE… Loose Women halted as Linda Robson breaks down over Pauline Quirke’s dementia [LATEST]

Pauline was diagnosed with dementia in 2021 (Image: Getty)

Learning of Pauline’s illness struck Maurice profoundly as he added: “I’ve always said that Pauline’s talent made our words sound better. It couldn’t be sadder.”

In a poignant statement released in January, Steve disclosed Pauline’s 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.”

Steve lauded his wife’s remarkable career, highlighting her BAFTA-nominated performance in The Sculptress and her compelling portrayal of Susan Wright in Broadchurch.

With over 60 notable TV and film appearances under her belt, including Casualty and Emmerdale, Steve paid testament to her exceptional acting range.

Concluding with a request for understanding, he shared: “We kindly request privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult period.

Pauline is reportedly struggling to recognise her family members (Image: Getty Images)

“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.”

Steve added: “We are deeply grateful for the support from her peers, the public, and the dedicated staff and Principals at PQA (Pauline Quirke Academy).”

It comes after Loose Women star Linda Robson addressed long-standing rumours of a feud between her and Pauline.

The 66-year-old clarified: “People say Pauline and I have fallen out. Obviously, I couldn’t see her during lockdown, but I’ve seen her since. She just doesn’t want to act anymore. She’s had enough – it’s long hours.”

Speaking to The Mirror in 2022, she added: “But when I was ill, both Pauline and Lesley [Joseph] rang me, or a member of my family, every couple of days to see how I was. They were both a big support and really there for me.”

Maurice also shut down rumours of a feud between the pair, saying: “They’re like sisters. But it’s nonsense. It’s no more than sibling rivalry, like in any family.”