Actress and producer Slaine Kelly has died at home surrounded by family, according to a death notice posted on the RIP.ie website. While the official notice did not state a cause of death, actor Paddy C Courtney confirmed that cancer took her life, describing the loss as “horrific” in a social media tribute.
Who was Slaine Kelly and what was her career legacy?
Slaine Kelly was an Irish actress and producer known for her work in television and film across Ireland and London. She gained international recognition for her role as Jane Howard—the cousin of Catherine Howard and former mistress of King Henry VIII—in the series The Tudors.
Her professional range extended from period dramas to commercial success. She played Una Blake in the series The O’Briens, a project she also produced, and appeared as Lucy in the film Rise of the Footsoldier II. Many viewers recognized her as the lead face of the “Barry’s Tea” advertisements, directed by BAFTA winner Declan Lowney and filmed in Thailand and Ireland.
How did colleagues and friends react to her passing?
The entertainment community responded with tributes highlighting Kelly’s charisma and professional versatility. Model and singer Michelle McGrath described Kelly as a “ray of light” and “one of the most beautiful souls,” noting her ability to make every person she met feel special.
Industry peers focused on her dual role as a performer and producer. One former colleague, who worked with her on the film Jack’s Hat and a subsequent short film where Kelly played the lead, described her as a “talented actress” who was consistently friendly and humble. Another associate noted that her enthusiasm for the film industry was “boundless,” stating that she was one of the brightest personalities in both the London and Irish acting scenes.
Tributes from the industry: A summary
| Source | Key Sentiment |
|---|---|
| Paddy C Courtney | Confirmed cancer as the cause of death; praised her as a “wonderful woman.” |
| Michelle McGrath | Highlighted her charisma, warmth, and “special aura.” |
| Film Collaborators | Praised her talent in Jack’s Hat and her passion for production. |
What are the family details mentioned in the tributes?
The RIP.ie notice identifies Kelly as the daughter of Marion and Joe Kelly. She is survived by her son, Knox, as well as her brother Darragh, sister-in-law Mags, and niece Eliza. The family statement emphasizes that she passed away peacefully at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Slaine Kelly’s death?
According to actor Paddy C Courtney, Slaine Kelly died from cancer.
What is Slaine Kelly’s most famous role?
She is widely remembered for playing Jane Howard in The Tudors and as the lead actress in the Barry’s Tea commercials.
Was Slaine Kelly involved in production?
Yes, she served as a producer on the series The O’Briens and collaborated on short films, including those with colleagues who worked on Jack’s Hat.
Share your thoughts: Do you have a favorite memory of Slaine Kelly’s work in The Tudors or her commercial appearances? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the arts and entertainment world.
