ITV Benidorm star Elsie Kelly dies at 89 as co-stars pay tribute to 'comedic genius'

Olivia Gantzer
Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:06:53 +0000

Elsie Kelly, the actress beloved for her portrayal of Noreen in the ITV comedy series Benidorm, has died at the age of 89.

Her agent Michelle Sykes confirmed that Ms Kelly passed away peacefully on April 21 following a brief illness, with her family by her side.

The performer spent more than ten years appearing in the popular sitcom, where her character became a firm favourite with viewers.

According to a statement from her agent, Ms Kelly possessed "unmistakable charm, sharp timing and gentle humour" that endeared her to audiences throughout her career.

Her work in Benidorm transformed her into a household name, though her acting career stretched across several decades in television, theatre and film.

Prior to her breakthrough role in Benidorm, Ms Kelly had built an impressive body of work across British television.

She portrayed the chatty cleaner Mrs Tardebigge in the soap opera Crossroads, a part that showcased her talent for memorable character roles.

Following a period away from the screen, she returned in 1996 with appearances in both the film Intimate Relations and a television adaptation of The Famous Five, where she took on the role of Joan the cook.

Her credits also included the E4 youth drama Skins and the acclaimed anthology series Inside No. 9.

Additionally, she featured in Harry & the Wrinklies, demonstrating the breadth of her abilities across comedy and drama throughout her lengthy career.

Crissy Rock, who appeared alongside Kelly in Benidorm, paid tribute to her former colleague on social media, describing her as "an absolute joy to work with".

Ms Rock wrote: "We shared so many wonderful memories filming Benidorm, moments I'll always treasure."

She added that Ms Kelly "brought so much warmth and laughter wherever she went" during their time working together on the ITV series.

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The actress revealed she was particularly moved that Ms Kelly had attended her performances at St Helens Theatre Royal on a couple of recent occasions.

"It meant a lot," the actress said of those visits.

She concluded her tribute by sending her thoughts to Ms Kelly's family and all those who loved her, stating: "She'll be deeply missed."

Derren Litten, who created and wrote Benidorm, also shared his sadness at the news, hailing Ms Kelly as a "comedic genius."

He described her character Noreen as "one of the best loved characters in the show" and Ms Kelly herself as "certainly one of the most beloved cast members".

Mr Litten reflected on the natural quality of Ms Kelly's performances, writing: "Elsie's acting abilities and comic genius were so natural they were almost taken for granted."

The writer continued: "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."