NIKITA Kuzmin shared a heartbreaking post to Instagram today announcing his grandad has died.
The emotional tribute received a lot of love from fans as well as other members of the Strictly cast.
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Nikita Kuzmin is mourning his grandadCredit: Instagram/ @nikita__kuzminHe shared a series of snaps as part of a touching tribute to InstagramCredit: Instagram/ @nikita__kuzmin
In the first picture in the carousel of snaps, Nikita is pictured beside his granddad beaming at the camera.
Others show the duo spending time with friends and other members of family.
The professional dancer emotionally penned a tribute in the post’s caption, writing: “Looking at these pictures my heart is beating so fast and I’m not sure what to write or how to even begin expressing how much I love you.
“Just memories of when I thought you’re the fastest walker in the world and how when I was a teenager I was proud of speeding past you, but you still were the quickest grandad in town.
Nikita noted how he didn’t know “how to even begin expressing” how much he loved himCredit: Instagram/ @nikita__kuzminThe star joined Strictly as a professional dancer back in 2021Credit: Instagram/ @nikita__kuzmin
“But specially how much you always took care of us, no matter what, always there.”
Nikita finished the post off by writing, ‘I love you, Grandpa,” in Russian followed by a red love heart emoji.
Strictly contestant Tasha Ghouri led the comment section, sharing two love heart emojis.
Actress Sarah Hadland added another series of hearts.
Meanwhile a fan wrote: “Thinking of you and your family. Sending hugs.”
LORNA Luxe rewore her wedding dress to the BAFTA TV Awards in a touching tribute to her late husband – three months after his sad death.
The popular influencer was left heartbroken in February when her husband John passed away aged 64 following a battle with adrenal cancer.
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Lorna Luxe rewore her wedding dress to the TV Baftas on SundayCredit: InstagramLorna’s husband John passed away in February aged 64Credit: Instagram
But in a touching tribute, Lorna, 43, opted to wear her wedding gown to the annual event in London, keeping her husband close in her thoughts as she continues to figure out life without him.
Earlier in the week, Lorna had shared on TikTok that she was keen to wear her dress, as it also tapped into the awards’ theme of sustainability, but it was a little loose around her rib cage which was off putting.
But on Sunday, Lorna took to Instagram to show off her glam red carpet look and was wearing the dress, which featured a satin bodice, thin straps and a chiffon drape coming from the cleavage and down around the hips to become the skirt.
Lorna tagged her hair and make up team in the video, and also added: “I’m so chuffed I got the dress altered with @abigailwestrupbridal it fits like a glove.”
Lorna had the dress altered so it fit properly again in time for the eventCredit: Instagram
Lorna completed the look with some stunning diamond earrings and a necklace which she said she had borrowed for the evening, but meant that she would be accompanied by a security guard from the jewellers all evening due to their hefty price tag.
But in a further fitting tribute to John, she also revealed she was wearing her huge engagement ring and some diamond bracelets she had also received from her late spouse.
She added: “So it just feels really lovely, and I’m in my dress.”
A close friend of Lorna’s exclusively told The Sun’s Fabulous Magazine: “She had been planning to do it for quite some time. In fact her and John had discussed it as a ‘next chapter’ in her career.
“She made the request to Instagram to change it last year, but it just automatically changed on a Saturday night. It really pleased her as she knew John would have loved it.”
Westlife have paid tribute to Simon Cowell during an appearance on Britain’s Got Talent, with Shane Filan, Nicky Bryne and Kian Egan all taking to the stage without bandmate Mark Feehily
20:54, 09 May 2026Updated 20:58, 09 May 2026
Westlife on Britain’s Got Talent(Image: ITV)
Westlife have paid tribute to Simon Cowell during an appearance on Britain’s Got Talent.
The band – which features Shane Filan, Nicky Bryne and Kian Egan – performed their biggest hits ahead of their 25th anniversary tour. However, they were without bandmate Mark Feehily, who will also not appear on the tour.
There was no specific mention of Mark, but the trio paid a heartfelt tribute to judge Simon, who was instrumental in their success.
“It’s been a long time since Simon Cowell suggested standing up from our stools on a key change,” Nicky said. Kian went on to pay tribute to Simon and said they wouldn’t have been there without him.
In June, it was confirmed Mark would be absent from the tour. The band said in a statement: “Sadly, Mark will be unable to join the celebrations. We hope he can join us back on stage when he is ready and able. He sends his love and positivity to you all as always.”
Mark announced he would be taking a break from Westlife just days before first ever tour of America in 2024. At the time, he shared: “Hello and much love to you all! It’s Mark here.. Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while.
“It actually all started 3.5 years ago in August 2020 when I had surgery. Within a few days of this surgery I was in severe pain and was rushed into A&E. I eventually ended that awful day in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) where I was informed that due to a complication with the surgery, I had developed severe ‘Sepsis‘, a life-threatening infection that would require immediate emergency surgery to rectify the problem and basically save my life.”
He explained that he was in hospital for months during lockdown, and was later told he needed more surgery.
“It was physically and mentally a very difficult time, not to mention traumatic having to spend so long in ICU. In late 2021, I became very ill in Newcastle before a concert and ended up back in A&E, this time being told I had pneumonia. I was told I had to go straight home to recover and regrettably miss the rest of the concerts that December,” he said.
Speaking about Mark missing their big anniversary tour, Kian told us: “We’re devastated he won’t be joining us on this tour. We’ll be missing him every night just as much as the fans will. But he’s given us his full support. This is the 25th anniversary, it’s something that we all felt needed to be celebrated. We hope as soon as he’s ready he’ll be back with us and we look forward to that moment.”
BBC radio presenter Dave Llewellyn has died aged 57 after two decades on air – as his devastated family release a touching tribute.
The Radio Tees star – famed for his distinctive bright red hair – was hailed as the “most loving father and husband” by his daughter Amy.
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The radio star has died aged 57 after two decades on airCredit: BBC
Dave worked as a travel presenter in the north east region for more than 20 years – famously starting out as the “eye in the sky” in a plane.
Alongside his traffic updates, the larger-than-life DJ also co-hosted a gardening show at the weekends.
And for the past six years, he was a producer onBBCRadio Tees, most recently working on Gary Philipson’s daytime programme.
The presenter, hailed as “incredibly modest and generous” by his daughter Amy, died after a short illness.
She said: “Outside of his work he loved his family and his music.
“His true talent shone through while he was playing his keyboards, synthesisers and bass.
“He was the most loving father and husband, always going out of his way to make us happy.
“He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him, especially our beloved dog Cupid who always saw a taste of his generosity, usually in the form of a shared sausage sandwich.”
More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online
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DENISE van Outen has opened up about her heartbreak over losing a Towie “family member” as she revealed plans to pay tribute to Jake Hall.
The TV star shared an emotional message, reflecting on the devastating loss.
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Denise van Outen reveals her heartbreak over the devastating lossCredit: GettyTowie star Jake Hall has been found dead at a Spanish holiday villaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
“But he was so lovely whenever I saw him out and he was so friendly and so talented.
“I really feel for his family, my thoughts go out to them, and it is just really sad and he was way too young to go.
“I do wonder what TOWIE will do, I think they’ll do a tribute as they’ve lost a few people recently. I was just really really shocked when I saw it.”
Cops found the 35-year-old former reality show hunk in a pool of blood with fatal head wounds apparently caused by shards of glass.
Officers say inquiries focused on the theory of a tragic accident in which the 6ft 4ins star smashed his head through a glass door.
A source said: “Witnesses told investigators he had been out partying all night and decided to carry on the party back at the place he was renting.
“It appears from what police have been told that he became agitated, possibly from alcohol and other substances he may have consumed.”
The source also said at one point things “turned aggressive” and he may have “tried to harm himself by banging his head against things.”
Officers were called to the rented house in Santa Margalida in the north of the holiday island at around 7.30am on Wednesday morning.
A police source said: “We are focusing on the theory the victim died in a tragic accident after hitting his head against the glass door but it is still too early to say definitely what happened.”
No arrests were believed to have been made as inquiries continued and an autopsy is due to take place in the Majorcan capital, Palma.
An ongoing investigation is being led by the Spanish Civil Guard.
He often spent time in Majorca where he had a second home used as a base for work and leisure.
A statement shared by her talent agent said: “At this time, Misse’s focus is on supporting and protecting their child as they come to terms with this devastating loss.
“The family are asking for privacy, compassion and respect while they grieve privately.”
Jake joined TOWIE in 2015, and dated co-star Chloe Lewis before leaving the programme in 2024.
He also ran a menswear brand called By Jake Hall.
Jake had a daughter, River, with model and Real Housewives of Cheshire star Misse BeqiriCredit: Richard YoungDenise has been voicing the show TOWIE since it started in 2010Credit: Getty
Gray skies didn’t prevent L.A.’s arts community from getting fancy in support of the Hammer Museum’s annual Gala in the Garden. Adorned in fur coats, colorful sunglasses and patterned ties, artists and celebrities including Owen Wilson, Rufus Wainwright, Lauren Halsey and Catherine Opie joined to celebrate gala honorees Betye Saar and television writer and producer Darren Star.
The event highlighted how the Westwood-based museum inspires creatives and harnesses community for the city’s artists. Under pink and yellow lights, guests enjoyed cocktails while admiring the museum’s galleries. Guests, including Los Angles County Museum of Art Director and Chief Executive Michael Govan and the Hammer’s Director Emerita Ann Philbin, reunited with old friends and colleagues, making the event feel like a family affair.
All were unified in their admiration of the night’s guests of honor.
At 99, Saar is among L.A.’s most esteemed and accomplished living artists. Her career has spanned more than seven decades, with an early focus on rejecting white feminism and reclaiming the Black female body. Civil rights activist Angela Davis traced the start of the Black women’s movement to the creation of Saar’s 1972 assemblage piece, “The Liberation of Aunt Jemima.”
During onstage comments at the gala, Getty Research Institute presidential scholar Sandra Jackson-Dumont discussed the massive impact Saar has had on the art world.
“It measures in the artist who found their voice because you insisted that your voice mattered. It’s in the institutions that shifted because you demanded that they see us,” Jackson-Dumont said while introducing Saar to the stage. “You take what the world cast aside and breathe spirit into it, insisting that the overlooked can speak, that the discarded can testify, that the everyday can dream.”
Ann Philbin, from left, director emerita, Hammer Museum, Kohshin Finley and Lauren Halsey attend the Hammer Museum’s 2026 Gala in the Garden.
(Stefanie Keenan / Getty Images for Hammer Museum)
The event also served as an early celebration for Saar’s 100th birthday in July, with Jackson-Dumont calling her birthday “100 years of vision. 100 years of courage.”
“[It’s] not 100 years of working, of making art, but 100 years of living with eyes wide open, heart attuned, spirit unbound, we stand in awe,” Jackson-Dumont said.
Saar took to the stage amid a resounding standing ovation, and when she spoke, the crowd’s gaze remained intently on her. While Saar kept her remarks short, she talked about the importance of art in everyday life.
“So many people do not realize how important art is, how it affects everything we do. Even bad things, because you can take art and make it good,” Saar said. “I want to thank you for coming to this event because by you being here, it encourages a lot of other people who are not here to love art and to use art and to know how important art is in this foreign life.”
Netflix co-Chief Executive Ted Sarandos introduced Star, who created groundbreaking series including “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Sex and the City,” “Younger” and “Emily in Paris,” which defined pop culture references for generations of television viewers.
Sarandos called it a “privilege” to work with Star, explaining that his work has an “enduring staying power” and that “there has never been a storyline that is too bats— crazy for Darren.”
“Darren is simply one of the most talented showrunners of his generation, with his finger on the pulse of pop culture for more than three decades,” Sarandos said. “He influences the clothes we wear, the way we cut our hair, the music we listen to and the dreams we dream.”
Star, who has long served on the Hammer’s board of directors, celebrated his honor by explaining what he loves about the museum, including its Alice Waters’ restaurant Lulu, and the environment the space provides for Los Angeles creatives.
The view from above the courtyard at the Hammer Museum’s 2026 Gala in the Garden, which honored artist Beye Saar and television writer and producer Darren Star.
(Charley Gallay / Getty Images for Hammer Museum)
“The Hammer creates a wonderful community. We come together because we all love art, love Los Angeles and love this museum,” Star said. “I’m grateful to be part of this family and the city’s extraordinary artistic life.”
The gala was the second under the leadership of Hammer Museum Director Zoë Ryan, who succeeded longtime director Ann Philbin in January 2025. Former Los Angeles City Council President Joel Wachs called Ryan a “true scholar, open-minded, unflappable.”
“I believe she is exactly the kind of strong leader this institution needs in these really difficult, complicated and turbulent times,” Wachs said during his opening remarks. “And if anyone can be counted upon, I believe it’s her that will vigorously defend against the grave dangers and vicious attacks on freedom of expression that both museums and universities currently face.”
During her speech Ryan said the Hammer is “cherished” by the Los Angeles community, and that she intends to keep providing a space for creatives in the city.
“At the heart of the Hammer is a deep commitment to giving space to artists, bold and experimental ideas, and supporting audiences as a catalyst for change through dialogue and exchange — all much needed in this country right now.”
DAVID Beckham has posed in a pair of tiny speedos as his wife Victoria gushes over him in a sweet tribute to mark his 51st birthday.
The former professionalfootballer is celebrating his birthday today, and his wife Victoria has shared several sweet posts – including unseen photos and private family snaps.
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Victoria Beckham shared a gushing tribute to her husbandCredit: InstagramHe is celebrating his 51st birthday today (May 2)Credit: Instagram
One of the posts Victoria shared saw David posing on a boat in only a pair of tiny red shorts.
Showing off his incredible physique, David’s six pack and muscles were on full display.
Victoria accompanied the slew of snaps with a gushing tribute to her husband.
In the caption, the fashion designer penned: “You are our world, our everything. We love you so much!!!
Victoria shared some sweet snaps from a sun-soaked breakCredit: InstagramThe couple posed on a yacht in some of the snapsCredit: Instagram
“Happy birthday to the best husband, daddy, son, brother, and friend.
“To the kindest most generous soul. We will spoil you all day!!!!
“Nobody deserves it more than you xxx.”
Commenting on the post, one person penned: “Happy birthday!! Please stay together forever.”
A second person swooned: “He ages like a fine wine.”
“We all love your husband as much as you do,” added a third.
Romeo Beckham wished his dad a happy birthday on InstagramCredit: InstagramRomeo branded his dad his ‘best mate’Credit: InstagramCruz Beckham shared a sweet tribute to his father to mark his 51stCredit: instagramJackie Apostel also shared a sweet tribute to her boyfriend’s fatherCredit: InstagramJackie praised David for being a role model to CruzCredit: Instagram
While a fourth said: “Happy Birthday David!! He just gets better and better.”
And a fifth wrote: “Happy birthday Sir David .. and Lady Victoria that was beautifully written. Have a fabulous day.”
She also shared a selection of images from a night out where David blew candles out on top of a birthday cake.
David was seen posing with his mum and dad, as well as other family members.
Victoria then shared some sweet photos of her and her hubby posing on a yacht.
David’s doting wife is not the only person to wish him a happy birthday on his big day.
Romeo Beckham took to Instagram to share several sweet posts in honour of his dad where he dubbed him as his “best mate”.
Cruz also shared two snaps of him and his dad, wishing him a happy day.
His girlfriend Jackie Apostel has thanked David for being a role model to her boyfriend in a sweet post.
And as the family feud rumbles on after Brooklyn launched a nuclear attack on his family earlier this year, he is of course yet to wish his father a happy birthday publicly.
SCOTT Mills has been dealt with a fresh blow after his sacking from the BBC as his M3 bridge tribute has been permanently removed.
It was officially unveiled as The Scott Mills Bridge back in 2016 and a plaque was installed at Fleet Services on the M3.
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Scott Mills has been dealt with a fresh blow after his sacking from the BBCCredit: Shutterstock EditorialA tribute plaque was installed in 2016 after a bridge was named after himCredit: News Group Newspapers ltdThe plaque has now been taken downCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
His then BBCRadio 1 co-host Chris Stark and Welcome Break staff led a campaign to rename it after him.
However, after his dismissal from the BBC, the plaque has now been removed.
In official pictures obtained by The Sun, the plaque which was previously on a wall next to a set of stairs, has been taken down.
The black and silver frame previously said “The Scott Mills Bridge” alongside the Welcome Break logo and his signature.
The Sun previously revealed that the bridge would be renamed as Welcome Break, who own the service station, want to disassociate themselves from Scott, 53, following the scandal.
A source explained last month: “It’s highly likely Welcome Break will rename the bridge in light of Scott being fired, especially given the nature of the allegations.
“It’s not a great look for them to be associated with any scandals.”
He was last on-air as host of the Radio 2 Breakfast Show on Tuesday, March 24, before a complaint arose.
BBC chiefs are understood to have taken swift action in sacking him thereafter.
The complaint is believed to relate to “serious sexual offences” against a teenage boy.
He was questioned by police under caution in 2018 – when he was in his 40s, the Mirror reports.
The interview was related to alleged offences which took place between 1997 and 2000.
The case was dropped in full due to a lack of evidence.
Scott was sacked last month due to his “personal conduct”Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
A source close to Mills — the BBC’s 11th highest-paid star — told The Sun: “Scott was told about the allegation in a meeting with senior staff present. He was tense.
“He has completely shut down now and no one can get hold of him. No calls, no messages — nothing.
“The people who know him are blindsided by all of this and they can’t get hold of him.”
An internal message was sent around Radio 2 after Mills’ exit was made public.
She expressed: “There are not enough adjectives to really sum up how I’m feeling about being trusted with such an iconic show but let’s start with ecstatic, honoured and incredibly chuffed.
“It’s been a dream to host the Breakfast Show since I joined Radio 2 and it feels like a bit of a full circle for me.
“I’ve had the most glorious seven years of my career on Teatime so thank you to my brilliant Teatime listeners who hopefully will join me at Breakfast for excellent music and all my usual nonsense plus some superstar guests.
“I honestly can’t wait to wake the nation up with the biggest most fun breakfast show ever.”
Sara Cox has replaced Scott as host of BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast ShowCredit: Getty
ALEX Reid has revealed his mum Carol has died as he shared a heartbreaking tribute to her on social media.
The CelebrityBig Brother star, 50, took to Instagram to share a series of pictures with his beloved mother as he revealed the devastating news.
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Alex Reid has revealed his mum has diedCredit: InstagramCarol had been battling Alzhemier’s and was living in a care home
He penned: “Today I celebrate the life of the best woman in my life, my mum, who went to join my darling dad in heaven!
“I’m absolutely heartbroken, but have a sense of ease knowing you are in peace now, not in pain.
“I unfortunately missed my mum’s passing by 2 minutes, although I still managed to hold her in my arms, kiss and caress her face, telling her how much I love her.
His followers rushed to support him with messages of condolences as one wrote: “So sorry Alex. Sending you love xxx.”
Another social media user commented: “I’m so sorry Alex for your loss. You’re so lovely with your mum. Anyone can see the love between you both. May she RIP.”
Someone else said: “I’m so sorry for your loss. Prayers and thoughts are going out to you and the family.”
Yet another penned: “I’m so sorry for your loss! May she rest in peace and I truly believe that she will always be with you in spirit cheering you on. God bless you and your family.”
While a fifth added: “Bless you Alex you’ve been by her side all these years, she knew in those two minutes she will always be in your heart. Love to you all x.”
Alex revealed back in 2020 that his mum was battling Alzheimer’s and was feeling guilty for moving her into a care home.
At the time, he shared a number of headlines surrounding Dame Barbara Windsor, who also had the disease prior to her death in 2020.
He wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “I know how it feels moving mum into a home with dementia it’s worse than bereavement as they’re still here & so lost.
“You feel an immense sense of guilt to want to do more I see how scared mum sometimes is, wanting to come home, but I see she how she is adapting & her quality of life improves.”
In March last year, he shared a video of him going to the care home to visit Carol as he gave her a bunch of flowers and a card.
He previously shared his guilt over putting his mum in a care home
He told his followers on Instagram: “Visiting my mum with dementia in her care home today on Mother’s Day, I was so grateful and lucky that she actually said I love you my darling!
“I’ve only had two or three words out of her over the last year! So so grateful! Happy Mother’s Day everyone!”
Alex and his fiancée Nikki welcomed their twin boys Phoenix Bobby and Hunter George back in 2023.
Nikki told Mail Online at the time: “To just have them in my arms. I am complete now. I have my family and I never need to revisit that dark place again.”
He and fiancee Nikki are parents to three childrenCredit: Rex FeaturesAlex was previously married to Katie PriceCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe won Celebrity Big Brother back in 2010Credit: PA:Press Association
Johnny Vegas has hailed his Benidorm co-star Elsie Kelly, who played his mum Noreen on the sitcom, as a “mother figure” to him following her death at the age of 89
Benidorm’s Johnny Vegas has paid tribute to his on-screen mum Elsie Kelly (Image: Liverpool City Region Combined Authority)
Johnny Vegas has hailed Elsie Kelly as a “mother figure” to him following her death at the age of 89. The comedian, 54, was the on-screen son of Elsie ‘s character Noreen Maltby in the long-running ITV sitcom and after her passing, he has led the tributes with an emotional message.
The actor starred as Geoff Maltby, an obsessive quizzer who liked to call himself as The Oracle, and formed a memorable double act with Elsie, who, as long-suffering mother Noreen, was often at the resort with him and had to play along as he as he practiced his craft.
“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.”
Crissy Rock, who played hotel manager Janey Yorke on Benidorm in the years before she was replaced by Sherrie Hewson, was the first to announce the news. She wrote 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.
She wrote 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.
“With a career spanning decades across television, theatre, and film, she most recently became a household name through her work on Benidorm…Her unmistakable charm, sharp timing and gentle humour made her a fan favourite.”
The cast was made up of other famous faces from British television, including the likes of Janine Duvitski, Steve Pemberton, Siobhan Finneran and Sheila Reid, who famously starred as Madge Bishop for several years.
Before joining Coronation Street as undertaker George Shuttleworth, actor Tony Maudsley was perhaps best known for his role as camp hairdresser Kenneth Du Beke on Benidorm. Other stars to enjoy short stints on the programme, which was created and written by Derren Litten, included Sheridan Smith, Nadia Sawalha and Denise Welch, whilst showbiz legends like Dame Joan Collins and Cilla Black also made guest appearances.
As her on-screen career developed, she appeared in the sitcom Bread in the late 1980s, and took on the role of Enid in the film 1996 comedy Intimate Relations opposite Julie Walters, Les Dennis and Amanda Holden.
Elsie also filmed two episodes of Coronation Street in 2011, where she played Mrs Hargreaves, who died under a hairdryer at Audrey’s Salon, but, just months before her death, Elsie revealed that she had been in contact with Derren Litten amid speculation of a Benidorm comeback.
Speaking in a video that surfaced on TikTok, she said: “Hello all you holidaymakers in Benidorm! I do hope you’re having a lovely time, I am sure you are!
“We’ve just had a nice lunch with Derren and it will mean a lot to both of us. Anyway, I hope to see you soon, in Benidorm, and as Noreen would say, ‘I do hope your holiday is inconclusive!’ Siobhan Finneran, who played Janice Garvey also paid trubute, as she wrote on X: “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.”
TV writer Derren, who starred alongside Catherine Tate on her sketch show before creating Benidorm, wrote: “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. Elsie’s acting abilities and comic genius were so natural they were almost taken for granted.”
“For someone who initially auditioned for the role of Madge (and gave an excellent reading of the part), her personality and natural warmth encouraged me to build up the part of Noreen from one or two lines in the first two episodes (initially intending to lose the character by the end of the first series) to many episodes and many series, culminating in her playing Noreen’s own twin, Doreen in series 10.
“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.”