Remembering Kelley Mack: ‘The Walking Dead’ Actress Dies at 33 After Brave Battle with Brain Cancer
Kelley Mack, the vibrant actress best known for her role as Addy in The Walking Dead, has sadly passed away at the age of 33.
Born Kelley Klebenow, she died peacefully in her hometown of Cincinnati this past Saturday, following a courageous battle with glioma, a rare and aggressive tumor that affects the brain and spinal cord. Her passing was announced through a heartfelt message on her Instagram account, accompanied by a photo capturing her warmth and light.
“It is with indelible sadness that we are announcing the passing of our dear Kelley,” the post read. “Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go.”
Known for her kindness, passion, and radiant energy, Kelley left a deep mark not only on screen but in the lives of those who knew her. Her colleagues, friends, and fans have poured out tributes, remembering her not just for her acting talent, but for her heart.
“What an incredible human,” wrote The Walking Dead co-star Alanna Masterson. “So proud to have fought alongside her in our final episode together.”
Throughout her career, Kelley collected 35 acting and 5 producing credits—a testament to her dedication to storytelling. While many will remember her as Addy in Season 9 of The Walking Dead, she also brought life to characters like Penelope Jacobs in Chicago Med and appeared in FOX’s 9-1-1. Off-screen, her voice and presence graced commercials for brands like Dr. Pepper, Ross, Dairy Queen, and Chick-fil-A.
Her love for storytelling began young—sparked by a birthday gift of a mini video camera. It wasn’t long before she was acting in commercials as a child, eventually following her passion to Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, where she earned a degree in cinematography.
But beyond her resume, Kelley was known for something far more meaningful: her warmth, creativity, and unwavering support for others. “Her infectious enthusiasm and dedication to her work inspired countless others in the industry and beyond,” her family shared in a post on CaringBridge.
She is survived by her parents, Kristen and Lindsay Klebenow; her sister Kathryn and brother Parker; grandparents Lois and Larry Klebenow; and her boyfriend, Logan Lanier.
Kelley’s legacy will live on in the roles she brought to life, the stories she told, and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed—but always remembered for her vibrant spirit, boundless kindness, and unwavering love for her craft.
