After taking a break from performing in her West End show ‘Funny Girl’, it has been reported that friends and family are worried about the talented actress, as well as her loyal fan base.
Meanwhile, others have been quick to criticise the 34-year-old for her absence, after claims she was obviously intoxicated to the point she was unable to perform one of her last shows.
In response to the judgement being through Sheridan’s way, her close friend and fellow beloved British TV personality David Walliams has stepped up to defend the Cilla star.
Speaking to Alex Jones and Matt Baker during an interview on The One Show, David said:
“I feel a lot of compassion for Sheridan.
"I love Sheridan she is like a sister to me.
"She is obviously going through a very serious issue with her family - in any other job you would be allowed some time off, wouldn't you?
"I think she should definitely be allowed this time off."
The award winning actress has been signed off work on stage for four weeks after suffering ‘exhaustion.'
A statement by the production read: “Sheridan Smith will be taking leave of absence from Funny Girl, due to stress and exhaustion”.
“The entire team at Funny Girl is thinking of Sheridan, and know she is getting the rest and support she needs during this very difficult and stressful time.
“We will all miss her enormously and send our love and best wishes – and we are looking forward to her return to the show in due course.”
Before she was signed off from the play, the actress missed several Funny Girl performances (in which she plays lead Fanny Brice), resulting in her receiving abuse online.
In light of the online attack, Sheridan tweeted:
“I love you who have my back, beyond belief. Sorry x”
These events comes after a trialing few months for the actress, which has seen the breakdown of her relationship with actor Greg Wood, and the sad news that her father Colin has been diagnosed with cancer.
We hope Sheridan feels back to herself as soon as possible, and we hope she rests up well in the meantime.