Penny Noble, a respected and visionary leader at Noble Caplan Abrams Talent Agency in Toronto, Ontario, has passed away unexpectedly on June 22, 2025. Her sudden death at the age of 58 has left the Canadian entertainment industry reeling, and colleagues, friends, and family are mourning the loss of a trailblazer whose passion for nurturing talent set her apart in a highly competitive field.
Born in Toronto on April 14, 1967, Penny Rose Noble grew up with an innate flair for performance and a love of the arts. As a bright and driven student at Earl Haig Secondary School, she excelled in drama and debate clubs, laying the groundwork for her future career. Penny earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communications from York University in 1989, graduating with distinction. Early on, she recognized that her true calling would be to connect artists with opportunities, guiding them to flourish on stage, screen, and beyond.
Penny Noble’s professional journey began as an assistant at a small talent agency, where her tireless work ethic and keen eye for untapped potential quickly earned her promotions. In 1998, she joined Noble Caplan Abrams Talent Agency, a mid-sized firm seeking to expand its footprint in film, television, and theatre. Penny’s strategic vision and collaborative spirit drove the agency’s growth, transforming it into one of Canada’s most respected talent management companies.
Over her nearly three-decade tenure at Noble Caplan Abrams, Penny shepherded the careers of a diverse roster of actors, writers, directors, and producers. She was instrumental in launching the careers of several now-household names, championing emerging Canadian talent on the world stage. Colleagues admired her for combining business acumen with genuine care—she never lost sight of the human element in an industry often driven by bottom lines.
Beyond her professional achievements, Penny Noble was deeply committed to community and mentorship. She co-founded the Toronto Women in Film & Television Mentorship Program in 2005, offering free workshops and networking events to women seeking to break into entertainment. For her contributions, she received the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Outstanding Contribution in 2018. She also served on the board of directors for Theatre Ontario and volunteered annually at ACTRA’s Refugee Benefit Gala, ensuring that her influence extended to those most in need.
In her personal life, Penny was known for her warm hospitality and eclectic interests. She and her husband, Michael Chen, whom she married in 1992, made their home in the Junction Triangle neighborhood. Together they raised two children: daughter Olivia, now 24 and a budding screenwriter, and son Lucas, 21, who is studying music composition. Penny’s home was often alive with laughter, impromptu readings, and gatherings of friends from all walks of life.
Penny Noble’s sudden passing from complications of a pulmonary embolism has left a void in both her family and the industry she helped shape. “Penny’s legacy is not just in the stars she helped rise but in the spirit of generosity she instilled in all of us,” said David Abrams, her longtime business partner and friend. “Her belief in the transformative power of storytelling will continue to guide our work every day.”
A public memorial service will be held on July 1, 2025, at the Isabel Bader Theatre in Toronto, followed by a private family celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, the Noble family requests donations be made to the Toronto Women in Film & Television Mentorship Program, ensuring Penny’s commitment to lifting others will endure. Her dedication, compassion, and pioneering spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know and work with her.
