ITV star confirms that huge sitcom has ended after 30 years for tragic reason

More than a decade ago, a beloved sitcom that had been on the BBC was revived on ITV, but Linda Robson, the show’s cast member, has confirmed that Birds of a Feather won’t be back.

A cast member for a well-known sitcom has announced that it won’t be airing any more episodes. The actor claimed that the highly acclaimed program, which first aired more than 30 years ago, is now “time to move on.”

The update on the future of Birds of a Feather was shared by Linda Robson, 67, who played Tracey Stubbs, in a recent interview. She starred on the long-running show alongside Pauline Quirke, 65, and Lesley Joseph, 79, who played Sharon Theodopolopodous and Dorien Green respectively.

Birds of a Feather initially ran on the BBC for nine series from 1989 to 1998. It was later revived by ITV for three subsequent series, which aired between 2014 and 2016. The most recent episode was a Christmas special back in 2020.

Linda has now suggested that the show “won’t come back”. The update comes following the news in January that her co-star Pauline would be stepping back from her career after being diagnosed with dementia four years ago.

Speaking to the Daily Star, Linda said: “Now Pauline has retired, Birds of a Feather won’t come back. It wouldn’t be the same without her.” She further told the outlet in the interview: “It’s had its day now. It’s time to move on.”

The Loose Women panelist also reminisced about the award-winning sitcom. She went on to share that Birds of a Feather – which spawned a stage show in 2012 – remains beloved by fans who grew up watching the sitcom.

She stated in the interview that it is amazing to look back and see how popular the show is. “People still adore it,” added Linda. They claim to have watched it as a child throughout their lives.

The interview comes shortly after Pauline’s diagnosis with dementia was made public. Steve Sheen, Pauline’s husband, made the announcement in a statement that was made public in January.

I’m saddened to learn that my wife Pauline has decided to step down from all professional and commercial responsibilities as a result of her diagnosis of dementia in 2021, according to Steve in the statement. She “just wants to spend time with her family, children, and grandchildren,” he continued.

Since then, updates have been shared by loved ones, including Linda. She spoke to the Mirror about her friend whilst at TV Choice Awards last month and said that it had been “tough” after finding out about the diagnosis herself.

Linda said at the time, “I was aware of Pauline’s diagnosis for three years, and it has been difficult.” The actor continued to mention Pauline’s “being really looked after” and that she has since kept in touch with her pal’s husband Steve.

We FaceTime frequently, but she doesn’t say too much; we’re always in touch, and I’m going to see her next week. Although it’s encouraging to see her support, talking about it can be upsetting.

If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Dementia UK.

Source: Mirror