Heartbreaking Farewell: Elsie Kelly, Beloved Noreen from Benidorm, Passes Away at 89 After a Legendary Career 💔

BENIDORM star Elsie Kelly has died aged 89 – as her devastated co-stars lead touching tributes to the actress.

Elsie, who played Noreen on the ITV sitcom for more than a decade, passed away “surrounded by her family” yesterday, her agent confirmed.

Aside from her role in Benidorm, Elsie has also starred in various TV roles, including playing gossipy cleaner Mrs Tardebigge in Crossroads.

And after a long break from TV, Elsie went on to appear in the 1996 film Intimate Relations.

She also appeared in an episode of E4 drama Skins and played Joan the cook in the 1996 adaptation of The Famous Five.

Her agent, Michelle Sykes, confirmed beloved actress Elsie had passed away after a “short illness”.

A statement read: “She passed away peacefully, after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family on 21st April 2026 at the age of 89.

“With a career spanning decades across television, theatre, and film, she most recently became a household name through her work on Benidorm…

“Her unmistakable charm, sharp timing and gentle humour made her a fan favourite.

“Beyond this iconic role, she appeared in numerous British television programmes, including Inside No. 9, Harry & the Wrinklies, The Famous Five and Crossroads.”

Elsie played Noreen Maltby and, in series 10, she even played Noreen’s identical twin sister Doreen in a dual role.

Noreen was the mother of Johnny Vegas‘ on-screen character, Geoff – also known as The Oracle.

Crissy Rock, who also starred in Benidorm, hailed Elsie as “an absolute joy” in a touching tribute on social media.

She wrote: “So sad to hear of the passing of Elsie Kelly this morning.

“We shared so many wonderful memories filming Benidorm, moments I’ll always treasure.

“She was an absolute joy to work with and brought so much warmth and laughter wherever she went.

“I was so touched that she came to see me on tour a couple of times recently at St Helens Theatre Royal – it meant a lot.

“Thinking of her family and all who loved her. She’ll be deeply missed.”

Derren Litten, the creator and writer of the popular ITV show, described Elsie as a “comedic genius”.

He wrote: “So sad to pass on the news of the passing of Elsie Kelly aka Noreen in Benidorm.

“One of the best loved characters in the show and certainly one of the most beloved cast members.

“Elsie’s acting abilities and comic genius were so natural they were almost taken for granted.

“Thanks for your talent but most of all your friendship Elsie, I am very sad today but also happy to think of such a wonderful life well lived.”

ITV said: “In Noreen Maltby, Elsie Kelly created one of British comedy’s best loved characters, quickly becoming a Benidorm audience favourite with an always underplayed wit and spark in her eye.

“She will be greatly missed and our thoughts are with her family and friends.”