Elisabeth Kirkby, star of Australian soap Number 96, has sadly died at the age of 105. Born in Bolton, Lancashire, she also had roles in everything from The Outsiders to Glenview High – but amidst her acting career, launched a stint in politics. Elisabeth became the State Parliamentary Leader with the Australian Democrats in 1977 and continued to serve in various positions until 2004.

But Elisabeth was best known for playing Lucy Sutcliffe in Number 96 from 1972 until 1975, as well as appearing in the TV movie of the same name and a spin-off documentary charting the soap's success. Her famous daughter Debbie Baile also starred in the soap alongside her mum in 1975, while her son Tony Llewellyn-Jones is known for his own acting and producing work in Australia.

Elisabeth was married to gynaecologist Derek Llewellyn-Jones, for whom she initially moved to Australia, and the couple welcomed three children together. She also leaves behind grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Tributes have been flooding in for Elisabeth, who died on April 20th. TV agent Matt Batten posted to Instagram: "A true legend of Australian television has passed.

"Veteran performer Elisabeth Kirkby OAM, best known for her role as Lucy Sutcliffe on Number 96, has died at the incredible age of 105. Born in Bolton, United Kingdom in 1921, Elisabeth lived an extraordinary life — including serving in the British Army during World War II.

"She became a household name in Australia through Number 96, appearing in an incredible 886 episodes from 1972 to 1975 alongside James Elliott as Alf.

"Her career spanned decades, with roles in The Rovers, Homicide, Riptide, Hunter, The Outsiders and Glenview High. An amazing life. An incredible career. A true pioneer of Australian television. Rest in peace Elisabeth."

Meanwhile, a fan wrote on X: "Today is a dark day, Elisabeth Kirkby has passed away at the age of 105 years..."