The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Kelley Mack, a talented actress known for her roles in popular television series such as ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘9-1-1.’ Mack passed away on August 2 at the age of 33 following a courageous and private battle with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer known as central nervous system glioma. Her family announced her death, remembering her as a “bright, fervent light” whose spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched.
A Tragic Loss and a Courageous Fight
Mack, who was born Kelley Lynne Klebenow in Cincinnati, Ohio, was diagnosed with the devastating illness in September 2024. For nearly a year, she underwent intensive and aggressive treatment in a determined effort to overcome the disease. According to statements shared by her family, including her sister Kathryn Klebenow, on social media, Mack passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving mother, Kristen, and her aunt, Karen. The announcement conveyed the family’s profound sadness while also celebrating the vibrant life she lived. “Kelley has already come to many of her loved ones in the form of various butterflies,” her sister wrote, a touching tribute to her enduring spirit.
A glioma of the central nervous system is a type of tumor that originates from the glial cells in the brain or spinal cord. These cells are responsible for supporting and protecting the nerve cells. While some gliomas are slow-growing, Kelley Mack’s diagnosis was an aggressive, high-grade form of the disease that progresses rapidly and is notoriously difficult to treat. Despite the immense challenges, Mack’s family and friends lauded her for her bravery and resilience throughout her illness, calling her a “tough SOB” who fought valiantly until the end.
A Career Defined by Versatility and Passion
Though her career was tragically cut short, Kelley Mack’s creative spirit left a lasting impression on the screen. She was a versatile actress who worked across various mediums, including film, television, commercials, and voice-over roles. Her most notable role came in AMC’s hit zombie-apocalypse series, ‘The Walking Dead,’ where she portrayed the character Addy in five episodes during its ninth season. She was part of the Hilltop Colony, and her character’s presence left an impact on the show’s dedicated fanbase.
Beyond ‘The Walking Dead,’ Mack’s acting credits include guest appearances on the popular procedural dramas ‘9-1-1’ and ‘Chicago Med.’ In ‘Chicago Med,’ she was recognized for her role as Penelope Jacobs. Her work also extended to film, with roles in productions like ‘Broadcast Signal Intrusion.’ Her commitment to her craft was evident in her passion for storytelling, and she was also involved in film production and cinematography, even producing her own short film titled ‘Positive.’ Her vibrant presence and talent were highly appreciated by colleagues and audiences alike, with many co-stars and industry professionals sharing heartfelt tributes online.
In addition to her professional life, Mack was an accomplished college tennis player and possessed a deep love for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and playing pickleball. This well-rounded nature and zest for life made her passing all the more heartbreaking for those who knew her. She is survived by her parents, brother Parker Mack, sister Kathryn, and her loving boyfriend, Logan Lanier, among other family members.
Remembering Kelley Mack: A Celebration of Life
As the news of her death spreads, tributes from across the entertainment industry have poured in. Friends and co-stars have taken to social media to share their fond memories of Mack, highlighting her kind spirit, infectious laugh, and unwavering positivity. Her family has planned a celebration of life to honor her memory, with an event scheduled for August 16 in her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. A separate memorial is also being planned for a later date in Los Angeles to allow her friends and colleagues from the film and television industry to pay their respects.
The story of Kelley Mack’s life and her brave battle with illness serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Her legacy will live on through her work and the memories she created with her loved ones. The outpouring of love and support for her family during this difficult time is a testament to the impact she had on the people around her, both on and off-screen. Her passing at such a young age is a profound loss for her family, friends, and the broader creative community.
People Also Search For: Answering Common Questions
Following the news of Kelley Mack’s passing, many people have turned to search engines to learn more about the actress and her life. Here are some of the most common queries and their answers:
Table of Contents
Kelley Mack Died
Yes, actress Kelley Mack tragically passed away on August 2, 2025, at the age of 33. Her death was a result of complications from a rare and aggressive brain cancer.
Kelley Mack Walking Dead
Kelley Mack had a recurring role in AMC’s ‘The Walking Dead’ during its ninth season, where she played the character of Addy. She appeared in five episodes of the show, which aired between 2018 and 2019.
Kelley Mack Movies
While primarily known for her TV work, Kelley Mack also appeared in several films, including ‘Broadcast Signal Intrusion’ and ‘The Last Room.’ She was also a producer and voice-over artist, showcasing her diverse talents in various projects.
Kelley Mack Age
At the time of her death, Kelley Mack was 33 years old. She passed away just months after publicly sharing her diagnosis with the public.
Kelley Mack Death
The cause of Kelley Mack’s death was a rare and aggressive brain cancer known as central nervous system glioma. Her family confirmed she passed away peacefully in her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio, surrounded by her loved ones.
Parker Mack
Parker Mack is Kelley Mack’s younger brother. He is also an actor, known for his roles in the MTV series ‘Faking It.’ The family’s tribute to Kelley’s life noted that she is survived by her parents, her brother Parker, and her sister Kathryn.
This tragic news has left a void in the hearts of many who followed her career and knew her personally. Kelley Mack’s memory will be cherished not just for her contributions to the entertainment industry, but for the strength and grace she showed in the face of her illness.