Nellie Ellis

Name: Nellie Ellis
First Appeared: 23rd December 1993
Last Appeared: 18th September 2000
Played by: Elizabeth Kelly

Nellie Ellis, the ever-resourceful cousin of Lou Beale, made her debut in Walford in December 1993, attending the funeral of her first cousin once removed, Pete Beale. Nellie’s knack for getting what she wants became apparent when she broke her hip shortly after and emotionally blackmailed Pauline Fowler into letting her stay. Not keen on returning to Ilford and living alone, Nellie offered Pauline a cash loan in exchange for a more permanent residence, and Pauline reluctantly agreed.

Nellie’s time in Walford was anything but dull. She often went drinking with Ethel Skinner, but their outings usually ended in squabbles. Nellie struck up a friendship with the younger Cindy Beale and distant relative David Wicks, who only paid attention to her in hopes of a financial boost for his car business. Her beloved cat, Mandoo, met a tragic end when it was found under Joe Wicks’ bed in 1996, adding to Nellie’s list of woes.

Nellie wasn’t shy about expressing her disdain for Pauline’s husband, Arthur Fowler. Holding a grudge because her own husband, George, had left her for another woman named Doreen Ellis, Nellie often criticized Arthur, especially after he cheated on Pauline. Despite harbouring such resentments, Nellie found closure with Doreen and resolved her issues with Arthur before George’s funeral. Eventually, she decided to give Pauline and Arthur space to mend their marriage, moving out and briefly staying with Jules Tavernier. Their relationship, although flirtatious, remained platonic.

Ever the master manipulator, Nellie tried to weasel her way back into the Fowlers’ home by faking various accidents to gain sympathy. However, her plans were thwarted when Pauline’s daughter, Michelle, arranged for Nellie to move into sheltered accommodation with Ethel.