The Walking Dead Star Kelley Mack Dies at 33
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of a talented actress whose vibrant spirit touched many lives.
Kelley Mack, known for her role in The Walking Dead, passed away at the age of 33.
Her journey was filled with creativity, courage, and a passion for storytelling that inspired those around her.
Let’s take a closer look at her life, her achievements, and the legacy she leaves behind.
Honoring Kelley Mack’s Passing: A Rising Star in Film and Television
Kelley Mack, born Kelley Lynne Klebenow on July 10, 1992, in Cincinnati, Ohio, discovered her love for storytelling at a young age. A mini video camera, a birthday gift, sparked her passion for acting and filmmaking.
She began appearing in commercials as a child and later earned recognition for her role as Chloe in the 2008 film The Elephant Garden. This performance won her an Acting Award from the Tisch School of the Arts, and the film itself received the Student Visionary Award at the Tribeca Film Festival.
Mack’s career grew steadily, with 35 acting credits and five producer credits. Her most notable role was as Addy, a Hilltop Colony resident, in season nine of The Walking Dead (2018-2019).
She also appeared in shows like Chicago Med as Penelope Jacobs and 9-1-1. Her film roles included Broadcast Signal Intrusion (2021), Delicate Arch (2024), and the upcoming Universal (2025), where she also served as an executive producer.
Beyond acting, Mack lent her voice to projects like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, where she was the voice match for Hailee Steinfeld’s Gwen Stacy. Her work in commercials for brands like Dr. Pepper, Dairy Queen, and Rakuten showcased her versatility.
A Brave Fight Against Glioma
In September 2024, Mack shared that she had been diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma, a rare and aggressive brain cancer affecting the central nervous system. Despite the challenges, she faced her illness with remarkable strength.
A biopsy surgery led to the loss of mobility in her legs, requiring her to use a walker and wheelchair. Yet, she remained optimistic, posting updates about her recovery, including a video of her climbing stairs with the support of her boyfriend, Logan Lanier. Her courage inspired many, and she continued to connect with her fans through social media.
On August 2, 2025, Mack passed away peacefully in her hometown of Cincinnati, surrounded by her mother, Kristen, and aunt, Karen. Her family shared the news on Instagram. They describing her as a “bright, fervent light” and noting that she had appeared to loved ones as butterflies, symbolizing her enduring presence.
A Lasting Legacy
Kelley Mack’s life was more than her on-screen roles. She graduated from Hinsdale Central High School in 2010 and earned a bachelor’s degree in cinematography from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film in 2014.
An accomplished college tennis player, she loved hiking, pickleball, biking, playing the piano, and traveling. Her warmth and creativity touched everyone she met, from co-stars to fans.
Mack is survived by her parents, Kristen and Lindsay Klebenow, her siblings Kathryn and Parker (also an actor), her grandparents Lois and Larry, and her boyfriend, Logan.
A celebration of her life is planned for August 16 in Glendale, Ohio. However, another event is to follow in Los Angeles, where she lived for 11 years. Her family, friends, and colleagues, including The Walking Dead co-stars like Alanna Masterson and Gustavo Gomez, have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering her as a talented and kind soul.
Kelley Mack’s contributions to film and television, along with her inspiring spirit, will live on. Her story reminds us to cherish every moment and to pursue our passions with courage and love.
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