Elisabeth Kirkby, star of Channel 10 soap Number 96, has died aged 105.

The actress, state politician and Australia’s oldest-ever university graduate, died on April 20 and was best known for her role in the 1970s soap Number 96, playing Lucy Sutcliffe.

She starred in the very first episode of the cult soap in 1972, went on to feature in 886 episodes and appeared in the TV movie of the same name.

Alongside her acting career, Kirkby also made a foray into politics, becoming the State Parliamentary Leader with the Australian Democrats in 1977.

TV agent Matt Batten paid tribute to the soap stalwart, describing her as a “pioneer of Australian television”.

“A true legend of Australian television has passed,” he wrote on Instagram.

“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.”

Kirkby’s daughter, fellow actress Debbie Baile, starred alongside her mum in Number 96 in 1975 while her son Tony Llewellyn-Jones is an actor and producer. 

Alongside her soap opera stint, the actress landed several roles with the Crawford Productions company, including Homcide, Riptide and Glenview High.

Kirkby worked with the ABC on educational films and documentaries, and also spent time in radio as an announcer on 2BL and 2GB.

She joined the NSW Parliament in 1981, serving in the Legislative Council for 17 years and becoming the Australian Democrats’ longest-serving MP before retiring from politics in 1998.

The actress earned the title of Australia’s oldest university graduate, aged 93, earning a PhD from the University of Sydney.

She was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2012.