Kelley Mack, ‘The Walking Dead’ Actress, Dies at 33

Kelley Mack, known for her role as Addy in Season 9 of The Walking Dead, passed away on August 2, 2025, at the age of 33 in her hometown of Cincinnati after a battle with glioma, a rare and aggressive brain cancer affecting the central nervous system. Her family announced the news on her Instagram, describing her as a “bright, fervent light” who passed peacefully with her mother, Kristen, and aunt, Karen, by her side.

Career Highlights

Born Kelley Lynne Klebenow on July 10, 1992, Mack discovered her love for storytelling as a child after receiving a mini video camera. She began acting in commercials and earned early recognition for her role as Chloe in The Elephant Garden (2008), winning an Acting Award from Tisch School of the Arts and a Student Visionary Award at the Tribeca Film Festival. Mack’s career spanned 35 acting credits and five producer roles, including her standout performance as Addy in five episodes of The Walking Dead (2018-2019), where her character was abducted by the Whisperers in the season finale. She also appeared as Penelope Jacobs in Chicago Med Season 8, on 9-1-1, and in films like Broadcast Signal Intrusion (2021), Delicate Arch (2024), and the upcoming Universal (2025), where she served as an executive producer. Her voice work included Gwen Stacy in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) and commercials for brands like Dr. Pepper and Chick-fil-A.

Personal Life and Legacy

Mack graduated from Hinsdale Central High School in 2010 and earned a cinematography degree from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film in 2014. Based in Los Angeles for 11 years, she was an accomplished college tennis player who loved hiking, pickleball, piano, and traveling. She is survived by her parents, Kristen and Lindsay Klebenow; sister, Kathryn; brother, Parker, also an actor; grandparents, Lois and Larry; and boyfriend, Logan Lanier. Her family noted her warmth and creativity, with tributes from The Walking Dead co-stars like Alanna Masterson and Gustavo Gomez praising her talent and spirit.

Mack shared her cancer journey publicly, noting in March 2025 that she had completed proton radiation and was in physical therapy, expressing gratitude for support. A remembrance is planned for August 16 in Glendale, Ohio, with a Los Angeles celebration to follow.

Developing Story

Mack’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues, who remember her as a versatile talent and inspiring figure. Her contributions to film and TV, especially her vibrant presence, ensure her legacy endures.