Benidorm star Elsie Kelly has died at the age of 89. The actress, best known for playing Noreen Maltby in the ITV sitcom, passed away peacefully on 21st April 2026 surrounded by her family, her agent Michelle Sykes confirmed.
Her co-star Crissy Rock, who played hotel manager Janey Yorke on the show, announced the news on Instagram. She wrote: 'So sad to hear of the passing of Elsie Kelly this morning... She was an absolute joy to work with and brought so much warmth and laughter wherever she went.'
Kelly appeared in Benidorm from its first episode in 2007 until the fifth series, returning for series seven and even playing her character's twin sister Doreen. She portrayed the mother of Johnny Vegas's character, Geoff, known as The Oracle.
Siobhan Finneran was among the first to pay tribute on X, writing: 'We are devastated to hear about the passing of the incredible Elsie Kelly... Her acting and comedy abilities were out of this world.' Series creator Derren Litten also expressed his sadness.
Outside Benidorm, Kelly appeared in shows such as Bread, The Famous Five and a 2011 episode of Coronation Street. She began her career directing theatre productions including Annie and Oliver! at Liverpool Empire.
