EastEnders Icon Elizabeth Kelly Dies After Stellar Four-Decade Career
Elizabeth Kelly, a beloved icon of EastEnders, has passed away at the age of 104 on Christmas Day. Her remarkable career spanned four decades, during which she gained fame as Nellie Ellis, a character known for her nosiness and connections to Pauline Fowler in the BBC soap opera.
Career Highlights of Elizabeth Kelly
Kelly’s acting journey began in 1971 at the age of 50, when she took on a role in the rival soap, Coronation Street. This marked the start of her extensive career in television, making her a familiar face in several British dramas.
- Notable Works:
- EastEnders (1993-2000) – 138 episodes
- Home and Away
- Grange Hill
- Emmerdale
- Heartbeat
- The Bill
- Film Appearance:
- 24 Hour Party People (2002) alongside Steve Coogan
Final Years and Legacy
After her departure from EastEnders in 2000, Kelly transitioned to various roles until she retired in 2007. Her final performance was in The Royal. In her later life, she resided with her family in North Yorkshire before moving to a care home.
She is survived by her daughter, son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will remember her for her strength and gracious spirit. Father Eddie Gubbins, a priest at St Peter’s Church in Scarborough where her funeral is set for February 17, praised her beautiful voice and peaceful demeanor in her final moments.
Kelly’s passing marks a significant loss in the world of television, particularly for EastEnders fans who cherished her character. Her legacy will continue to resonate within the community of British soap operas.
