Elsie Kelly died aged 89 on April 21, 2026. She was best known for her role as Noreen in the ITV comedy Benidorm.
Kelly portrayed Noreen from 2006 until the show’s conclusion in 2018. Her character was initially meant to die in the first episode.
Born in Liverpool in 1936, Kelly made her television debut in the ITV soap Crossroads in 1979. She played Mrs. Tardebrigge until the show’s cancellation in 1988.
Throughout her career, she appeared in nine of the ten seasons of Benidorm. In the final season, she also played Noreen’s twin sister Doreen.
Her death was confirmed by her agent Michelle Sykes. Derren Litten, the show’s creator, expressed his sorrow, calling her a ‘comedic genius.’
Crissy Rock shared fond memories of working with Kelly, stating, “She brought so much warmth and laughter wherever she went.”
Kelly had a rich background as a musical theatre director before transitioning to acting. She directed the Birkenhead Operatic Society Trust from 1974 until 2019.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any specific cause of death or further arrangements.