The *Loose Women* panel broke their silence on Linda Robson’s absence from the show 

following the heartbreaking news of her *Birds of a Feather* co-star Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis.

On Tuesday, the tragic announcement was made that Pauline, aged 65, would be stepping away from acting due to the diagnosis,

which she had received in 2021.

This revelation has understandably shaken the  television industry,

especially given her long-running role in the beloved British sitcom *Birds of a Feather*.

The *Loose Women* hosts—Ruth Langsford, Jane Moore, Kelle Bryan, and Janet Street-Porter—discussed the news during the show’s closing segment on Tuesday. As they shared their thoughts, they also addressed Linda Robson’s absence from the panel.

Ruth Langsford explained, “Linda Robson, obviously great friends with Pauline, is actually away at the moment. Otherwise, she would have joined us today to talk about her friend. And obviously, she has known for some time.”

Linda, 66, has been a close friend and colleague of Pauline’s for decades. Together, they starred as Sharon Theodopolopodous and Tracey Stubbs in *Birds of a Feather*, which first aired in 1989. The show ran for 12 series, ending in 1998 on the BBC before making a successful return on ITV in 2014, lasting until 2020.

Their longstanding friendship was not only central to the sitcom but has been a prominent part of their lives off-screen as well.

The *Loose Women* panel ended their segment by showing a heartwarming clip from *Birds of a Feather*, featuring the iconic duo.

The moment reflected the deep bond the two actresses shared, highlighting their years of collaboration and friendship. It was clear that both Linda and Pauline’s roles in the series have left a lasting impression on fans and the television industry alike.

Earlier in the day, news of Pauline’s dementia diagnosis had been shared publicly. Her husband, Steve Sheen, issued a statement confirming that Pauline would be stepping back from her professional and commercial commitments.

In his statement, Steve expressed, “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.”

He also praised Pauline’s incredible career, mentioning her significant contributions to both the film and television industry and her work with the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA).

Pauline’s work has positively impacted countless lives, particularly through PQA, which she founded in 2007 with Steve.

The academy, which provides performing arts training to young people, has been a platform for building confidence and offering opportunities for aspiring artists.

Steve’s statement highlighted that while Pauline may be stepping back from the public eye, her legacy through PQA and her work in the entertainment industry will continue to inspire future generations.

In addition to the support shown by the *Loose Women* panel, the Pauline Quirke Academy also shared a statement on social media, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the public.

The message reassured followers that PQA would continue its mission to provide high-quality performing arts education. It also urged respect for Pauline and her family’s privacy during this difficult time.

Linda Robson, who is currently enjoying a holiday in the Caribbean, shared photos of her trip just hours before Pauline’s diagnosis was made public.

The timing of the announcement came as a shock to both Linda and the public, but it is clear that Linda remains deeply supportive of her longtime friend and co-star.

At the end of the *Loose Women* segment, Ruth Langsford concluded with heartfelt words of support, saying, “We wish Pauline well. And as Jane said, you’re living with dementia.

We send you all our love, and Linda will be here next week living all her memories as well.” The warmth and compassion from the *Loose Women* panel reflect the close-knit nature of the  television community, and their thoughts are with Pauline and her loved ones during this challenging time.