Birds of a Feather star Linda Robson has spoken about the future of the hit sitcom, following co-star Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis.
Earlier this year, Pauline’s husband Steve Sheen said the actress would be stepping away from acting following a diagnosis four years ago.
In a statement, 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."
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But now Linda who has been friends with Pauline for around 56 years has told Birds of a Feather fans it “won’t come back” as it’s “time to move on”.
The Loose Women favourite explained to the Daily Star: “Now Pauline has retired, Birds of a Feather won’t come back. It wouldn’t be the same without her.
"It’s had its day now. It’s time to move on.”
The beloved comedy show first aired in 1989 for nine years before it was cancelled in 1998.
It then made a return to ITV between 2014 and 2020, with a Christmas special being the final installment.
Reminiscing about the comedy programme, Linda shared: “It’s amazing to look back at the success of the show.
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“People love it even now. They tell me they grew up watching it throughout their childhood.”
Linda played the role of Tracey Stubbs in the iconic sitcom, alongside Pauline who took on the character of Tracey’s sister Sharon Theodopolopodous.
The sisters were forced to move in together following the arrest of their two husbands for armed robbery.
Birds of a Feather also featured Lesley Joseph as Tracey’s neighbour Dorien Green.
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Following Pauline’s dementia diagnosis being made public in January this year, Linda previously posted on Instagram: “This will be the only time I speak on behalf of my best friend, Pauline.
“For the past three years, I’ve been in close contact with her husband, Steve, and have spent time with Pauline.
“It breaks my heart to see her endure such a terrible illness. Out of respect for her family and her privacy, I will not be discussing this matter further.”
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