Kelley Mack Walking Dead
Kelley Mack was an American actress and producer best known for her role as Addy in season 9 of The Walking Dead, and for guest appearances on 9‑1‑1 and Chicago Med. Her career spanned over 35 acting credits and multiple producer credits. Tragically, she passed away on August 2, 2025 at the age of 33, after a courageous battle with central nervous system glioma, an aggressive brain tumor. Her family confirmed her peaceful passing in Cincinnati, surrounded by loved ones. Her life and legacy continue to inspire fans and peers alike.
You need to know about the headline “The Walking Dead actress KELLEY MACK dies at 33” because it highlights the toll of rare cancers like glioma, which impacted her life and career. Fans searching for “kelley mack walking dead,” “kelley mack cause of death,” or “addy the walking dead” will find her story both moving and instructive. Kelley’s openness about her diagnosis, rehabilitation after biopsy-induced paralysis, and continued passion for storytelling made her a beacon of resilience in the entertainment community.
When and Where—Kelley Mack & The Walking Dead
When did Kelley appear on The Walking Dead? She portrayed Addy in Season 9, appearing in approximately five episodes airing between late 2018 and early 2019. Her character was part of the Hilltop storyline and featured in key dramatic sequences.
Where was she based and where did she pass? Born Kelley Klebenow on January 10, 1992 in Cincinnati, Ohio, she later moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting and film production. She graduated from Chapman University in cinematography in 2014. Kelley died in her hometown of Cincinnati on August 2, 2025, after battling a central nervous system glioma—a rare and aggressive tumor affecting the brainstem or spine. She was surrounded by her mother and aunt at the time.
Her final film, Universal, premiered in mid-2025, shortly before her passing. Other credits included Chicago Med (as Penelope Jacobs), 9‑1‑1, Broadcast Signal Intrusion, Delicate Arch, and voice work in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Who-Why and Which Roles Mattered?
Who was Kelley Mack to fans and the industry? She was a multi-talented actress, producer, and voice-over artist, known for intelligent storytelling and authenticity. She had a close-knit family, including actor brother Parker Mack, and was highly respected for her creative vision and resilience.
Why was her passing notable? Beyond her role as Addy in The Walking Dead, Kelley documented her diagnosis and treatment journey publicly, particularly after she became partially paralyzed from a spinal biopsy. She tackled her challenges with openness, humor, and hope—walking stairs with a partner’s help and sharing personal milestones. Her life offered inspiration to many facing health crises.
Which roles define her legacy? Her recurring character Addy in The Walking Dead remains widely recognized. She also appeared in Chicago Med Season 8, 9‑1‑1, and starred in indie films like Broadcast Signal Intrusion and Delicate Arch. She produced award-winning short films like A Knock at the Door, and voiced roles in commercials—including spider‑Gwen voice match and campaigns for Ross and Credit Karma.
Important Facts About Kelley Mack & The Walking Dead (≈250 Words)
- Kelley was born on January 10, 1992, making her 33 at the time of her death in 2025.
- Her cause of death was central nervous system glioma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor affecting the spinal cord or brainstem. She was diagnosed in late 2024 and bravely documented her decline.
- She played Addy (Adeline) on AMC’s The Walking Dead during Season 9 (2018–19), appearing in five episodes.
- Despite a biopsy that paralyzed her lower limbs, she publicly shared her physical recovery efforts—such as climbing stairs with assistance—demonstrating remarkable determination.
- Kelley amassed over 35 acting credits across TV and film, along with five producer credits on projects like A Knock at the Door.
- Major on-screen roles included Chicago Med (Penelope Jacobs), 9‑1‑1, Broadcast Signal Intrusion, Delicate Arch, and voice work in Spider‑Man: Into the Spider‑Verse.
- Her final feature film, Universal, released just weeks before her passing. A memorial service is scheduled for August 16 in Ohio.
- Her family described her as a “bright, fervent light,” citing recurring butterfly sightings as a comforting sign of her spirit.
FAQs
Q1: Who was Kelley Mack?
A: Kelley Mack (born Kelley Klebenow) was an American actress and producer, best known for playing Addy in The Walking Dead Season 9, as well as roles on Chicago Med and 9‑1‑1.
Q2: What was the cause of her death?
A: She died from central nervous system glioma, a rare and aggressive form of brain/spinal cancer.
Q3: How old was she when she passed away?
A: Kelley Mack was 33 years old at the time of her passing on August 2, 2025.
Q4: What role did she play on The Walking Dead?
A: Kelley played Addy, a supporting character on The Walking Dead during Season 9 (2018–19), appearing in about five episodes.
Q5: Did her illness impact her career?
A: Yes. A spinal biopsy left her partially paralyzed, but she continued working—finishing Universal and sharing her recovery journey online.
Conclusion – Kelley Mack
The passing of Kelley Mack at just 33 due to central nervous system glioma is a profound loss to the acting world. Best known as Addy in The Walking Dead and for impactful roles in Chicago Med and 9‑1‑1, she demonstrated vulnerability and strength across a wide range of performances. Her courageous public documentation of weakness and perseverance touched fans and fellow artists alike.
Though her final film Universal premiered just weeks before her death, her body of work continues to showcase her passion. She produced award-winning shorts, voiced commercials, and was respected as a creative storyteller with vision. Her family’s statement—recalling butterflies appearing after her passing—symbolizes the light she left behind.
For fans searching information about kelley mack walking dead, addy the walking dead, or kelley mack cause of death, her story is a powerful reminder of human resilience and artistry. As colleagues and fans mourn, her legacy remains—in every performance she gave and every project she shepherded. Kelley Mack’s journey, both on screen and in life, inspires reflection on mortality, creativity, and the power of honesty.
🦋 May her spirit continue to shine through the stories she told.
