Elsie Kelly: Beloved Benidorm Star Dies at 89

Elsie Kelly died aged 89 on April 21, 2026. She was best known for her role as Noreen in the ITV comedy Benidorm, where she appeared from 2006 to 2018.

Born in Liverpool in 1936, Kelly made her television debut in the soap Crossroads in 1979 and continued until its cancellation in 1988. Her character, Mrs. Tardebrigge, became a staple of the show.

In Benidorm, she played Noreen for nine seasons, originally intended to die in the first episode. However, due to the chemistry between her character and others, she remained a beloved part of the series.

Kelly also portrayed Noreen’s twin sister Doreen during the show’s final season. Her death was confirmed by her agent Michelle Sykes.

Derren Litten, creator of Benidorm, described her as a “comedic genius”. He expressed sadness over her passing, highlighting her significant contribution to British comedy.

Crissy Rock shared memories of their time filming together, stating, “We shared so many wonderful memories… She was an absolute joy to work with.” This sentiment reflects how deeply she impacted those around her.

Before acting, Kelly was a musical theatre director and led the Birkenhead Operatic Society Trust from 1974 until 2019.

Yet, it was her role in Benidorm that solidified her place in television history. Fans remember not just her character but also the warmth she brought to every scene.

The legacy of Elsie Kelly lives on through her performances. Observers expect tributes to continue pouring in as fans and colleagues reflect on her life and career.