Elsie Kelly, the beloved actor known for her role as Noreen in ITV’s hit comedy series Benidorm, has passed away at the age of 89. Her agent, Michelle Sykes, confirmed the news on April 22, stating that Kelly died peacefully on April 21, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by her family.
Legacy of Elsie Kelly
Benidorm creator Derren Litten paid tribute to Kelly, calling her a “comedic genius.” He expressed his sadness, highlighting her as one of the most cherished characters in the show. Litten noted that her natural talent made her comedic contributions often overlooked.
Tributes from Co-stars
Fellow actor Crissy Rock, who also starred in Benidorm, shared her sorrow upon learning of Kelly’s passing. Rock reflected on the many joyous memories they created together during filming, emphasizing Kelly’s warmth and laughter.
Early Life and Career
Born in Liverpool in 1936, Elsie Kelly began her career in entertainment as a musical theatre director. She first made her mark on television in 1979 with a role in the ITV soap opera Crossroads, portraying cleaner Mrs. Tardebrigge until the show ended in 1988.
Return to Television
Following a hiatus from television, Kelly returned in 1995 to play a cook in the adaptation of Enid Blyton’s series. She later appeared in children’s shows such as The Ghost Hunter and Harry and the Wrinklies.
Breakthrough Role in Benidorm
In 2006, at the age of 69, Elsie Kelly landed her iconic role as Noreen Maltby in Benidorm. The show, set in a Spanish resort, focused on a group of holidaymakers who visit annually. Kelly’s character, accompanied by her son Geoff (played by Johnny Vegas), became a fan favorite throughout the series, which ran for 10 seasons until 2018. In the final season, she also portrayed Noreen’s twin sister, Doreen.
Conclusion
Elsie Kelly leaves behind a rich legacy of laughter and performance. Her contributions to television have touched many hearts, and she will be remembered fondly by co-stars and fans alike.
