Kelley Mack, a rising actress known for her poignant roles in The Walking Dead, Chicago Med, and 9-1-1, has died at the age of 33. Her family confirmed that she passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at her home in Cincinnati, Ohio, after a courageous battle with central nervous system glioma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.
A Family’s Loving Tribute
Mack’s passing was announced publicly on August 5, through a heartfelt Instagram post written by her younger sister, Kathryn Klebenow. The tribute described Kelley as “a bright, fervent light” who was “surrounded by her mother and aunt” in her final moments. The family wrote, “She has transitioned into peace, likely riding on a comet, dancing among the stars, and circling the rings of Saturn.”
The post also included a moving poem and a series of butterfly emojis — a symbol the family said now reminds them of Kelley’s enduring presence. “When you see a butterfly, think of Kelley,” they wrote. “She’s free.”
Breakthrough Role in The Walking Dead
Kelley Mack rose to prominence through her portrayal of Addy in Season 9 of AMC’s The Walking Dead, appearing in nine episodes of the acclaimed series between 2018 and 2019. Her character, a member of the teenaged group known as the Highwaymen, quickly became a fan favorite for her strength, warmth, and quiet resolve.
She went on to appear as Penelope Jacobs in NBC’s Chicago Med (Season 8), along with guest appearances in 9-1-1 and other network television shows. Her film credits include Broadcast Signal Intrusion and Delicate Arch, where she showcased her ability to blend emotional depth with subtle realism.
Just weeks before her passing, Mack completed work on a film titled Universal, in which she played a lead role. The movie was released in June 2025 and now stands as her final on-screen performance.
A Life Rooted in Storytelling
Born on July 10, 1992, in Cincinnati, Kelley Klebenow (professionally known as Kelley Mack) graduated from Hinsdale Central High School in 2010. She earned her bachelor’s degree in film production from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts in 2014.
Over the course of her career, Kelley appeared in more than 35 film and television projects and worked behind the camera on several others. She had an abiding passion for storytelling, not only as an actor but also as a writer, director, and collaborator.
In her final years, she co-wrote a screenplay with her mother Kristen Klebenow, inspired by their family history and set in the 1950s. The semi-autobiographical project, titled On the Black, reflects the deep familial bonds that shaped Kelley’s creative worldview.
A Private Battle, A Public Legacy
Mack kept her cancer diagnosis largely private, continuing to work and create as long as her health allowed. According to her family, she faced her illness with “incredible strength, grace, and humor,” never letting it define her or limit her light.
“She didn’t want to be remembered for how she died, but for how she lived,” her sister wrote. “Her compassion, her creativity, her soul.”
Kelley is survived by her mother Kristen and father Lindsay Klebenow, sister Kathryn, brother Parker, and grandparents Lois and Larry Klebenow.
A celebration of life ceremony is scheduled for August 16 in Ohio, where friends, colleagues, and fans will gather to honor her life, legacy, and the joy she brought to the world.
A Star Remembered
News of Mack’s death has drawn an outpouring of grief and remembrance from fans and industry peers. Many took to social media to share tributes, describing her as “gentle,” “deeply kind,” and “radiantly talented.”
AMC, the network behind The Walking Dead, released a statement expressing its condolences:
“Kelley Mack was a gifted artist and a beautiful soul. Her presence on and off set left a lasting impact. We are heartbroken.”
While her time was short, Kelley Mack left an indelible mark on the screen and in the hearts of many. She believed in telling stories that mattered — and in doing so, she became one herself.
Summary
- Name: Kelley Mack
- Born: July 10, 1992 – Cincinnati, OH
- Died: August 2, 2025 (age 33)
- Cause of death: Central nervous system glioma (brain cancer)
- Known for: The Walking Dead, Chicago Med, 9-1-1, Broadcast Signal Intrusion
- Education: Chapman University (Film Production, 2014)
- Final Film: Universal (2025)
- Celebration of Life: August 16, 2025, in Ohio
