Johnny Vegas shares heartbreaking tribute to Benidorm co-star Elsie Kelly after death aged 89
Topics: Celebrity, TV And Film, UK News
Rhianna Benson
Featured Image Credit: ITV
Topics: Celebrity, TV And Film, UK News
Benidorm actor Johnny Vegas has paid tribute to his on-screen mother, Elsie Kelly.
According to a statement shared by her agent, Michelle Sykes, the 89-year-old passed away on Wednesday (22 Apr).
"She passed away peacefully, after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family on 21st April 2026 at the age of 89," Sykes wrote.
Though her career spanned a staggering five decades, Kelly, from St Helens, UK, famously portrayed Noreen Maltby in the much-loved 'Brits abroad' sit-com for a total of eight years.
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Vegas, 54, took on the role of Kelly's television son and notorious pub quiz champion, Geoff Maltby, who went by the nickname 'The Oracle'.
Sharing a photograph of himself alongside the actress, Vegas wrote in the caption: "A more generous, talented, funny, kind and hard grafting soul as an actor you could ever hope to meet.
"Elsie was a mother figure to me, on and off screen and guided me through many highs and lows whilst overseas together."
The comedian added: "When I say Elsie was loved by all, it is a wonderful fact, not merely an apt comment to make during such sad times. I had many young actors over the years saying to me 'I worked with your mum'.
"Elsie touched and guided so many careers and crammed more into her 89 years than anyone else I’ve known in this profession. When not giggling poolside, she was in her hotel room, putting together her next musical line-up for many a Liverpool theatrical production."
Concluding his message, Vegas penned: "Elsie made going into work a true joy, in fact, it was more like playtime, and our time together, something to truly treasure. Bless you my other mum, and thank you for the endless joy you brought into so many of our lives.
"Elsie Kelly RIP [red love heart emoji]."
The all-star cast was also made up of Steve Pemberton, Siobhan Finneran, Janine Duvitski, Oliver Stokes, Kenny Ireland and Jake Canuso.
Kelly appeared on the show between 2007 and 2012, before reprising her role in 2015 and 2018.
Her CV also boasts appearances on Crossroads, The Famous Five and Harry and the Wrinklies.
Several other Benidorm co-stars have also commemorated Kelly's life, including Tony Maudsley, who played Kenneth Du Beke.
He penned: "So very sad to hear of the passing of our Benidorm Queen, Elsie Kelly. The most wonderful and the most funny lady, both on and off the screen. Such a huge loss to our Benidorm family.
"RIP Darling Elsie."
The show's creator, Derren Litten, also shared a statement describing her as a 'comedic genius'.
"So sad to pass on the news of the passing of Elsie Kelly, aka Noreen, in Benidorm," Litten wrote. "One of the best-loved characters in the show and certainly one of the most beloved cast members.
"Elsie’s acting abilities and comic genius were so natural they were almost taken for granted. Thanks for your talent but most of all your friendship Elsie.
"I am very sad today, but also happy to think of such a wonderful life well lived."