Johnny Vegas pays tribute to Benidorm co-star and 'mother figure' following her death
Elsie, who played Noreen, has died aged 89
Johnny Vegas has paid tribute to the actress who played his 'mam' in huge TV hit Benidorm, following her death on Tuesday 21st April 2026.
Elsie Kelly, who played Noreen Maltby, has died following a short illness — and tributes have been pouring in from her co-stars. But one which really struck a chord with the show's loyal fanbase came from her on-screen son Johnny Vegas, who played Geoff Maltby.
In a post on Instagram on Wednesday 22nd April, Johnny said: '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. 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.
'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 xxxx
'Elsie Kelly RIP ❤️.'
Fans flooded the comments with their condolences, with some sharing their favourite memories of the duo on screen. One wrote: 'The scene with you both trapped in the lift will forever live in my memory. A masterpiece', with another quipping: 'She’s not my PA….. she’s me mam ❤️.'
Meanwhile others praised the pair for their chemistry as mother and son, writing: 'Loved the funny scenes between Geoff and Noreen' and 'Your comedy timing together was epic!'
Remembering the famous faces we've lost in 2026:
Terry Yorath
Former Leeds and Wales footballer Terry Yorath sadly died at the age of 75 following a short illness in January. His family, including his daughter, TV presenter Gabby Logan, shared the sad news via a statement, which said: "To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was Dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man. Our hearts are broken but we take comfort knowing that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel."
Derek Martin
Actor Derek Martin, best known for playing the iconic role of cab driver Charlie Slater in BBC soap EastEnders, sadly died at the age of 92 on 10th January 2026. Derek's agent Sharon Henry sharing a statement on behalf of his family, which read: "Derek wasn't just a dad to us he was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows. He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people and was always generous with his time. We both miss him terribly. The family ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time."
Trevor A Toussaint
Actor Trevor A Toussaint, best known for playing the role of Walter Deveraux on Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, sadly died at the age of 65 in January. His rep confirmed the sad news on social media, writing: 'It is with deep sadness that we formally announce the passing of Trevor A Toussaint. His family wish to thank you for your well wishes and support as they take this time to privately come to terms with their great loss of an enigmatic, loving father, husband, grandfather, uncle and friend."
Francis Buchholz
German bassist Francis Buchholz, best known for his two-decade tenure with Scorpions and being a member of Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock, sadly died in. January, aged 71. A post from his family said: 'It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer. He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love.'
Catherine O'Hara
Home Alone and Schitt's Creek actress Catherine O'Hara sadly died at the age of 71 in January, following a brief illness. The Canadian-American comedy star was well known for playing Kevin's mum in Home Alone and Moira Rose in Schitt's Creek.
John Virgo
Snooker player and commentator John Virgo sadly died at the age of 79 in February. World Snooker Tour confirmed the sad news in a statement which read: "Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV."
James Van Der Beek
Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek sadly died at the age of 48 in February, following a battle with bowel cancer. The family statement said: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."
Robert Duvall
The Godfather actor Robert Duvall sadly passed away at the age of 95 in February. The Oscar-winning actor died "peacefully" at his home surrounded by "love and comfort", according to a statement by his wife Luciana Duvall.
Eric Dane
American actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in TV shows like Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, sadly died at the age of 53, after being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2025.
Mike Vernon
Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie and Eric Clapton producer Mike Vernon died aged 81. His family released a statement saying: 'To the world, he was a passionate champion of the blues and a legendary record producer who helped shape so much incredible music.
'But to us, he was also our dad, a brother, an uncle, a grandpa and partner — our steady guide, our storyteller, and our biggest supporter.
'We will miss him beyond words, but his music, his spirit, and his love will stay with us always.'
Mel Schilling
Mel Schilling, relationship expert and host of Married at First Sight in the UK and Australia, sadly died at the age of 54 after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Her husband shared a statement, which read: 'In her final moments, when I thought cancer had taken away her ability to speak, she ushered me closer and whispered a message for Maddie and me that will sustain me for the rest of my life. It took all of her remaining strength, and that gesture summed up our wee Melsie perfectly. Even then, her only thought was for Maddie and me.'
Alan Osmond
Alan Osmond has passed away age 76. The news was shared by his family, with his brother Merrill telling fans: 'Two days before my brother, Alan, passed, I was blessed to sit quietly with him. We talked as brothers do, heart to heart. He was struggling, but when I shared a joke or two, he found the strength to chuckle… and then he smiled.'
Elsie Kelly
Benidorm actress Elsie Kelly passed away on 21st April 2026, aged 89. She was best known for playing Noreen (and later her twin sister Doreen) in the hit TV series, alongside her on-screen son, Johnny Vegas, who played Geoff. Johnny paid tribute to his 'mam', calling her 'generous, talented, funny, kind and hard grafting'.