Johnny Vegas has paid a moving tribute to his Benidorm co-star Elsie Kelly, who played his on-screen mother Noreen Maltby, following her death at the age of 89. The comedian, 54, described Elsie as a "mother figure" both on and off screen, highlighting her profound impact on his life and career.
A Heartfelt Homage on Social Media
Taking to Instagram after the sad news emerged on Wednesday, Johnny shared an emotional message. He wrote, "A more generous, talented, funny, kind and hard grafting soul, and 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."
He emphasised that Elsie was universally loved, stating, "When I say Elsie was loved by all, it is a wonderful fact, not merely an apt comment to make during such sad times." Johnny also noted her influence on younger actors, saying many had told him they worked with his "mum," showcasing how Elsie touched and guided numerous careers.
Memorable On-Screen Partnership
In the long-running ITV sitcom Benidorm, Johnny starred as Geoff Maltby, an obsessive quizzer known as The Oracle, while Elsie played his long-suffering mother Noreen. Their characters formed a beloved double act, with Noreen often accompanying Geoff to the resort and humouring his quiz antics. Johnny reminisced about their time together, saying, "Elsie made going into work a true joy, in fact, it was more like playtime, and our time together, something to truly treasure."
He added, "Bless you my other Mum, and thank you for the endless joy you brought into so many of our lives." Elsie's career spanned decades, and she was known for her charm, sharp timing, and gentle humour, which made her a fan favourite on the show.
Co-Stars Join in Tributes
Crissy Rock, who played hotel manager Janey Yorke on Benidorm, was among the first to announce Elsie's passing. She posted on Instagram, "So sad to hear of the passing of Elsie Kelly this morning. We shared so many wonderful memories filming Benidorm, moments I’ll always treasure. She was an absolute joy to work with and brought so much warmth and laughter wherever she went."
Siobhan Finneran, who portrayed Janice Garvey on the show, also paid tribute on X, writing, "We are devastated to hear about the passing of the incredible Elsie Kelly, known to many as Noreen in #Benidorm. Her acting + comedy abilities were out of this world. May she Rest In Peace."
Creator Derren Litten's Reflections
Benidorm creator Derren Litten expressed his sorrow, saying, "So sad to pass on the news of the passing of Elsie Kelly aka Noreen in Benidorm. One of the best-loved characters in the show and certainly one of the most beloved cast members." He praised her natural acting abilities and comic genius, noting that her warmth led him to expand her role from minor lines to a central part, including playing Noreen's twin Doreen in series 10.
Litten added, "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."
Elsie Kelly's Extensive Career
Beyond Benidorm, Elsie had a rich career in television, theatre, and film. She appeared in the sitcom Bread in the late 1980s and starred in the 1996 comedy film Intimate Relations alongside Julie Walters and Amanda Holden. In 2011, she filmed two episodes of Coronation Street as Mrs Hargreaves.
Recently, Elsie had been in contact with Derren Litten amid rumours of a Benidorm comeback, sharing a video on TikTok where she said, "Hello all you holidaymakers in Benidorm! I do hope you're having a lovely time... We've just had a nice lunch with Derren and it will mean a lot to both of us."
Her legacy includes inspiring countless actors and bringing laughter to audiences worldwide, with Johnny Vegas and others cherishing her memory as a talented and kind-hearted individual.
