Kelley Mack, ‘The Walking Dead’ Actress, Dies at 33 After Battle with Brain Tumor

CINCINNATI — Actress Kelley Mack, best known for her roles in “The Walking Dead,” “Chicago Med,” and “9-1-1,” has passed away at the age of 33 after a battle with a rare and aggressive brain cancer. Her family confirmed she died peacefully in her hometown of Cincinnati, surrounded by loved ones. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends, fans, and colleagues who remembered her as a talented and kind soul.

A Brave Battle with Glioma

According to a family statement shared on the social networking site CaringBridge, Mack, born Kelley Klebenow, passed away on Saturday after battling glioma of the central nervous system. A glioma is a type of tumor that forms in the brain or spinal cord from glial cells, which support and protect nerve cells. Her family had been providing updates on her condition for months, with her sister Kathryn writing in an Instagram post, “It is with indelible sadness that we are announcing the passing of our dear Kelley. Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go.”

The family has announced a remembrance service will be held in Glendale, Ohio, on August 16, with a separate celebration of life planned for a future date in Los Angeles, where Mack lived and worked for over a decade.

A Career Spanning Television, Film, and Voice-Over

Mack’s career included 35 acting and five producer credits, showcasing her passion for storytelling. Her most prominent on-screen roles include:

• Addy on “The Walking Dead,” appearing in five episodes of season 9 where her character was part of the Hilltop community.
• Penelope Jacobs on “Chicago Med,” with a guest role in season 8, episode 6, titled “Mama Said There Would Be Days Like This.”
• A role on the FOX series “9-1-1.”

Beyond her on-screen work, Mack was a versatile talent. She provided voice-over work, including contributing as the voice match for Hailee Steinfeld’s character, Gwen Stacy, in the Oscar-winning animated film “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” She also appeared in commercials for major brands like Dr. Pepper and Chick-fil-A. Mack’s final credit, in the upcoming film “Universal,” is set for a posthumous release.

Tributes from the Industry

Tributes have poured in from those who worked with her. “The Walking Dead” co-star Alanna Masterson wrote, “What an incredible human. So proud to have fought alongside her in our final episode together.” Others remembered her for her creative spirit and kind nature.

Mack’s love for acting began as a child after she received a video camera as a birthday gift. She went on to graduate from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, earning a bachelor’s degree in cinematography, and continued to pursue her passion for both acting and producing throughout her life.

Remembering a Vibrant Spirit

Kelley Mack 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.

In their statement, the family noted, “Kelley’s legacy will live on through her contributions to film and television, and in the hearts of those who loved her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her talent, kindness and vibrant spirit.”