Veteran actress Elsie Kelly, best known to television audiences as the holidaymaker Noreen on the sitcom Benidorm, has died at the age of 89, her agent confirmed. Her passing on April 21, 2026 closes a career that spanned stage, screen and children’s television, and will be felt by colleagues and longtime fans alike.
Agent Michelle Sykes told The Sun Kelly “passed away peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family.” Sykes highlighted a multi-decade career across theatre, film and television and said Kelly’s warmth and comic timing made her a favourite with viewers.
Kelly’s most widely recognised television work was as Noreen Maltby, the doting and often sharp-witted mother of Geoff — Johnny Vegas’s character — on ITV’s hotel sitcom Benidorm, which ran from 2007 to 2018. The show has been the subject of occasional revival talk in recent years; any future production would now move forward without one of its best-known players.
Her screen credits were eclectic. She appeared in soap staples such as Crossroads and had brief turns in Coronation Street, while younger viewers might remember her from children’s series including The Famous Five and Harry and the Wrinklies. In a contrasting cameo, she also appeared in an episode of the teen drama Skins.
Colleagues and co-stars remember her
Johnny Vegas paid tribute on social media, describing Kelly as a guiding presence both on and off set, and saying she supported many younger actors through their careers. He called her generous and funny, and said her companionship during long overseas shoots was a source of comfort.
Actress Crissy Rock, another Benidorm alum, wrote that Kelly brought warmth and laughter to every set and recalled recent theatre visits that meant a great deal to her. Rock said Kelly will be “deeply missed” by friends and fans.
- Name: Elsie Kelly
- Age at death: 89
- Date of death: April 21, 2026
- Best-known role: Noreen Maltby on Benidorm (ITV, 2007–2018)
- Other credits: Crossroads, Coronation Street, The Famous Five, Harry and the Wrinklies, Skins
- Source: Statement via agent Michelle Sykes to The Sun
Kelly’s death marks the loss of a distinctive comic presence from British television. Colleagues have emphasized not only her professional craft but also her role as a mentor — a reminder that the influence of character actors often extends well beyond the screen.
For viewers who grew up with her performances or discovered her through reruns and streaming, tributes and reactions are likely to continue as networks and co‑stars reflect on her contribution to popular British comedy.
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