EastEnders Star Elizabeth Kelly Dies At 104

Elizabeth Kelly, the acclaimed British actress cherished by millions as Nellie Ellis on the BBC’s EastEnders, has died at the remarkable age of 104. News of her passing, which occurred peacefully on Christmas Day 2025, has prompted a wave of tributes from colleagues, fans, and the British television community at large. Her funeral is scheduled to be held on February 17, 2026, at St Peter’s Church in Scarborough, a private service honoring a life that left an indelible mark on the world of British soaps.

Born Elizabeth Trower in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1921, Kelly’s journey into acting was anything but typical. She began her professional screen career relatively late, securing her first notable television role at the age of 50. In 1971, she appeared as Edie Burgess in two episodes of Coronation Street, a role that would serve as the launchpad for a four-decade-long career spanning some of Britain’s most beloved television dramas. According to Radio Times, she also made early appearances in A Family at War and Grange Hill, steadily becoming a familiar face to viewers across the UK.

It was in December 1993 that Kelly would secure her most iconic role: Nellie Ellis, the busybody cousin of Lou Beale, in EastEnders. Her character, known for her sharp tongue and meddling ways, quickly became a staple in Albert Square’s vibrant tapestry. Nellie first appeared at the funeral of Pete Beale and soon moved in with the Fowler family, often sparring with Arthur Fowler or forming an unlikely friendship with Ethel Skinner. As reported by The Sun, Kelly’s portrayal was both comedic and heartfelt, endearing her to viewers and colleagues alike.

Kelly’s tenure on EastEnders spanned from 1993 to 1998, with a memorable guest return in 2000 for the funeral of Ethel Skinner. In total, she appeared in over a hundred episodes—some sources cite 106, while others list as many as 138—testament to her enduring popularity and the impact of her character. Even after her official exit, Nellie Ellis was mentioned in the show, highlighting the lasting impression Kelly left on the series.

Her work wasn’t limited to EastEnders. Kelly’s versatility saw her take on roles in Emmerdale—where she played Edith Weatherall, a friend to village favorites Marlon Dingle and Tricia Stokes—along with parts in The Bill, Heartbeat, Grange Hill, and even a cameo in the cult indie film 24 Hour Party People alongside Steve Coogan. Her career was punctuated by appearances in both drama and comedy, and she was recognized by her peers with a nomination for Scene Of The Year at the 2015 British Soap Awards for the unforgettable “Deirdre Throws the Trifle” sequence.

Despite her professional achievements, Kelly was known for her humility and privacy. She rarely gave interviews about her personal life, preferring to keep the spotlight on her work. However, it is known that she was married and is survived by her son, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. According to Daily Mail, she spent her final years in various care homes in North Yorkshire, having retired from acting in 2007 after her last role in The Royal.

Father Eddie Gubbins, the priest at St Peter’s Church in Scarborough, provided a glimpse into Kelly’s final days. Speaking to The Sun, he described her as “a very strong lady and had a beautiful voice,” adding, “She had a very peaceful death in the end. She was a beautiful lady and very gracious.” Gubbins revealed that Kelly was too frail to attend church in her last months, so he visited her at her care home in early December 2025 to give Holy Communion. “She was too frail for church, so we came to her in her care home… that would have been early December,” he recalled. His words echoed the affection and respect she inspired in those who knew her.

Tributes have poured in from across the British television landscape. EastEnders released a statement mourning her loss: “Elizabeth Kelly created a wonderful character in Nellie Ellis, and it is with great sadness that we learn of her passing. Those that worked with Elizabeth at EastEnders will remember her fondly for her warmth and kindness, and our love and thoughts are with Elizabeth’s family and friends.” Fans also took to social media, expressing their sorrow and admiration: “104 is a fine age to live to. Rest in peace, Nellie,” wrote one, while another said, “RIP Elizabeth Kelly. Best known for playing Nellie Ellis in EastEnders during the 1990s 104. Such a great age.”

Kelly’s legacy is also intertwined with the careers of those she worked alongside. Her passing comes shortly after that of Peter Rose, a distinguished director for EastEnders, Emmerdale, and Coronation Street. Rose’s death, announced by screenwriter and author Harry Duffin, marked another loss for the British soap world. Duffin remembered Rose as “a lovely man,” noting the close friendship they shared over the years. Kathryn Davies, another friend, wrote: “RIP Peter Rose, Director, Howards End, EastEnders, Coronation Street, Emmerdale. So sudden. Happy we did lunch in December, nobody to tell me off now! Bless you.”

Elizabeth Kelly’s story is one of late-blooming success, resilience, and quiet dignity. She brought to life characters that resonated with viewers for decades, from the bustling streets of Albert Square to the rolling hills of Emmerdale. Her ability to blend humor with humanity made her a standout in every role, while her personal grace left a lasting impression on those who knew her off-screen. As the British television community prepares to say its final farewell, her memory endures in the hearts of fans and the annals of soap history.

Her funeral, set for February 17, 2026, at St Peter’s Church in Scarborough, will be a private affair, in keeping with the privacy she valued throughout her life. For those who watched her on screen, Elizabeth Kelly will always be remembered as the formidable, funny, and fiercely loving Nellie Ellis—a character who, much like the woman who played her, will not soon be forgotten.