Tributes are being paid to the actor behind one of the most memorable characters in Benidorm, following the death of Elsie Kelly at the age of 89.
Kelly, who played fan favourite Noreen Maltby for most of the show’s run, was described as a “comic genius” by creator Derren Litten and remembered by co-stars as a central figure both on and off screen.
Actor and comedian Johnny Vegas, who played her on-screen son Geoff, said Kelly made going to work “more like playtime”.
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“Bless you my other mum and thank you for the endless joy you brought into so many of our lives,” he said.
Kelly, from Liverpool, appeared in 48 episodes of the ITV sitcom as the “batty” Noreen Maltby, a character known for her malapropisms. The show, which first aired in 2007, followed British holidaymakers staying at a fictional hotel in Spain.
Beyond Benidorm, she also appeared in Skins, Crossroads and early episodes of Coronation Street, as well as more recently featuring in Inside No. 9.
Reflecting on her impact, Vegas said: “Elsie was a mother figure to me, on and off screen, and guided me through many highs and lows whilst overseas together.
“When I say Elsie was loved by all, it is a wonderful fact, not merely an apt comment to make during such sad times.”
He added that she “touched and guided so many careers” and described their time working together as “something to truly treasure”.
Litten said her “acting abilities and comic genius were taken for granted”, adding that she became “one of the show’s best-loved characters” and “certainly one of the most beloved cast members”.
He also revealed that Kelly had originally auditioned for a different role, but her “personality and natural warmth” led to the expansion of Noreen’s character across multiple series.
Laura Stevenson, vice-chair of the Birkenhead Operatic Society where Kelly was a former director, described her as having an “amazing personality”.
“I’ve known Elsie for my entire life and she was just absolutely fantastic… everyone would always hang on her every word,” she told BBC Radio Merseyside.
