Geordie Shore star Natalie Phillips, 38, has announced the tragic loss of her beloved grandmother, Nanna Nellie, who died at the age of 99. In a heartfelt Instagram post on Sunday, the reality TV personality paid tribute to the woman she described as the 'heart and soul of the family'.
A Life Celebrated
Natalie, who joined Geordie Shore in 2019 as its oldest cast member, shared that Nellie passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family. Born in July 1926, she lived an incredible 99 years filled with love, laughter, strength, and countless stories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
In her emotional post, Natalie wrote: 'It is with the heaviest of hearts that I share the passing of my beloved Nanna Nellie. She left us peacefully yesterday, whilst surrounded by her loving family.' She added: 'After 34 years apart, she is now reunited with her beloved husband, my Granda Billy. Together again at last.'
A Proud Irish Woman
Natalie highlighted her grandmother's unwavering faith, kindness, and resilience as a proud Irish woman and devoted Catholic. She described Nellie as the matriarch of the Phillips family, whose legacy and memory will live on in each of them always. The post concluded with a tender farewell: 'May your journey to heaven be gentle and full of grace Nanna, and may you be welcomed with open arms into eternal rest. I love you Nanna.'
Outpouring of Support
Fans and friends quickly flooded the comments with condolences, writing messages such as 'So sorry babe' and 'Sorry to hear about your little nanna Nat. I know how much you adored her.' The support reflects the deep affection many have for the reality star.
Natalie first appeared on Geordie Shore in 2019 but left after two series, admitting she felt 'too old' for the boozy house environment. This news comes amid reports of a pay row and cast exodus that threaten the future of the long-running show, which launched on MTV in May 2011 and has aired 26 series.
According to The Sun, only six cast members are confirmed to return for series 28, which was set to begin filming a French road trip. The remaining cast faced an ultimatum: accept a pay cut and reduced screen time or lose their roles. The show's future remains uncertain as negotiations continue.
