Coronation Street icon Tony Maudsley has paid tribute to one of his co-stars, who has sadly died at the age of 89. Tony, who plays funeral director George Shuttleworth in the ITV soap, starred alongside Elsie Kelly in ITV sitcom Benidorm. She played Noreen Maltby in the comedy, but also popped up in Coronation Street herself back in 2011 as Mrs Hargreaves.

Tony posted a throwback snap of the pair together on set with his arms around Elsie, writing: “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.”

Fans rushed to support him, with one commenting: “She was adorable, sorry to hear this.”

Someone else echoed: “Oh no how sad, we watch Benidorm every night, she’s fab.”

A third followed up: “Sending love Tony, such sad news.”

Elsie’s agent Michelle Sykes confirmed the news today (April 22), stating: “She passed away peacefully, after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family on April 21, 2026, at the age of 89.

“With a career spanning decades across television, theatre, and film, she became a household name most recently through her work on Benidorm…

“Her unmistakable charm, sharp timing and gentle humour made her a fan favourite. Beyond this iconic role, she appeared in numerous British television programmes, including Inside No. 9, Harry & the Wrinklies, The Famous Five and Crossroads.”

Benidorm creator Derren Litten also paid tribute, writing: “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…”