Irish actress and producer Slaine Kelly dies aged 43

Slaine Kelly, Dublin-based actress, writer and producer has passed away on Saturday, July 4 at the age of 43.

She died peacefully at home surrounded by her family, according to a death notice.

Kelly was best known for her role as Jane Howard in the historical drama The Tudors. She appeared in Raw, Comedown, Sket, Rise of the Footsoldier Part II and S.P.L.I.T, and also co-wrote, produced and acted in The O’Briens, an independent Irish feature.

She was familiar to many Irish viewers for her work on a Barry’s Tea television ad.

Beginning her professional career in her teens, Kelly landed modeling jobs at 14 and began working internationally at 15. She first appeared in Elle magazine, then making her screen debut in the 2005 Irish short film, Ouch.

Outside of acting, her love of animals led her to found St. Anne’s City Farm in Dublin.

“Slaine will be fondly remembered for her work, her spirit and for helping to found St. Anne’s City Farm,” read the death notice.

Kelly was mother to her only child, 11-year old Knox. She is also survived by her parents, Marion and Joe Kelly, and sister Darragh.

Many of Kelly’s colleagues paid her tribute on social media, including friend Paddy Courtney.

“Her life was stolen by cancer, but her spirit of giddy curiosity and divilment will live on in all those who knew her,” Courtney wrote. “I was lucky enough to circle her orbit in many roles as pal, co-star and confidant. Thank you for the laughs.”

Underground Cinema, an organisation that holds film festivals and awards for independent filmmakers, shared their sadness at the news of Kelly’s death.

“She was a gifted actress whose screen presence left a lasting impression on audiences and filmmakers alike,” The group wrote. “Our thoughts and condolences are with Slaine’s family and friends.”

Slaine's family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to My Lovely Horse Rescue.

 

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