Nellie Ellis is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, portrayed by actress Elizabeth Kelly. Introduced in 1993 as the interfering relative of Pauline Fowler, Nellie became a regular presence on the show until 1998, with a final guest appearance in 2000. Characterized initially by her intrusive and annoying nature, she nevertheless assisted the Fowler family in various matters, such as helping Michelle Fowler recover money from Frank Butcher after a dispute over a stolen vehicle.
Throughout her time on the show, Nellie's storylines frequently revolved around her living arrangements and her relationships with other elderly residents of Albert Square. After moving out of the Fowler household, she briefly cohabited with Jules Tavernier and later secured a flat in the same sheltered accommodation as Ethel Skinner. Despite their frequent bickering and sparring, Nellie and Ethel developed a close friendship, with Nellie often providing physical support for the older woman.
In her later appearances, Nellie was frequently paired with Dot Cotton following Ethel's decreased screen time. She participated in key community events, including attending Arthur Fowler's funeral—which reignited an old family rivalry—and being present during major storyline revelations. Her final appearance occurred in 2000, when she returned to the square alongside Dr. Harold Legg to attend Ethel's funeral.
