Kelley Mack, the American actress celebrated for her role as Addy in AMC’s The Walking Dead, passed away on 2 August 2025 at the age of 33 after a courageous battle with glioma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the central nervous system. Her untimely death has resonated heavily in the UK, where fans and industry professionals alike mourn the loss of a vibrant, multifaceted talent whose impact stretched far beyond the screen.
Early Life and Passion for Performance
Born Kelley Lynne Klebenow in Cincinnati, Ohio, on 10 July 1992, Mack’s love for storytelling began in her early years. A childhood present—a mini video camera—sparked her creative aspirations and set her on a path that would define her life. By the time she made her screen debut in The Elephant Garden (2008), for which she received an Acting Award from the Tisch School of the Arts and the Student Visionary Award at the Tribeca Film Festival, her gifts were clear to all. Even as a child, her warmth and enthusiasm set her apart, and these qualities only deepened as she found her feet in the industry.
Building a Career Across Film, Television, and Voice-Over
Mack’s screen presence, marked by depth and empathy, found her a home in both television and cinema. UK viewers best remember her as Addy in the ninth season of The Walking Dead (2018–19), a brief but powerful turn which showcased her dynamic range and drew critical acclaim. She also made notable appearances as Penelope Jacobs in season eight of Chicago Med, on 9-1-1, and in several independent films including Broadcast Signal Intrusion (2021) and Delicate Arch (2024).
Her creative spirit was not limited to acting alone. Mack produced and starred in several short films, such as A Knock at the Door—which won the Festival Award at the Atlanta Horror Film Festival—and was an executive producer on the upcoming feature Universal, set to release this year. Her behind-the-scenes artistry shone as brightly as her performances.
A talented voice-over artist, Mack provided the voice-match for Gwen Stacy (originally voiced by Hailee Steinfeld) in the Oscar-winning Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. She also lent her voice to major commercial campaigns, broadening her reach and impact.
Personal Journey and Illness
In January 2025, Mack shared with her fans that she had been diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma. This rare and formidable form of cancer led to her peaceful passing in her hometown, surrounded by loved ones including her mother, Kristen, and aunt, Karen. Her family’s heartfelt public statements described her as “a bright, fervent light,” whose kindness, creativity, and enthusiasm inspired everyone fortunate enough to know her or see her work.
Mack’s loved ones plan to honour her memory with a celebration of her life in Ohio on 16 August and further events in Los Angeles, where she built much of her career in the film and television industry. She leaves behind her parents, siblings, grandparents, and her partner, actor Logan Lanier, all of whom shared moving tributes marking her legacy of compassion and bravery.
Impact and Tributes
The news of Mack’s passing prompted tributes across the entertainment world, including heartfelt messages from co-stars and producers on both sides of the Atlantic. Her Walking Dead castmate Alanna Masterson described her as an “extraordinary person” and a “bright light on every level,” sentiments echoed by UK and international fans.
Michael Satrazemis, a director on The Walking Dead, credited Mack’s spirit for setting the tone on set, while her Chicago Med colleagues praised both her talent and the sincerity she brought to her roles. Testimonies from friends and family consistently highlighted her generosity, resilience, and her ability to brighten every room.
Legacy for UK Audiences
Kelley Mack’s story resonates strongly with UK audiences, not just for her roles in hit US series but for the example she set in overcoming adversity and continually reaching for new forms of expression. Her multifaceted career—as actress, producer, director, and voice-over artist—illustrates the power of perseverance and lifelong artistic curiosity.
For British fans, Mack is remembered not just as a face from their screens but as an enduring inspiration. The resilience she displayed in her personal life, particularly as she made her diagnosis public to raise awareness, won her new admirers in the UK and beyond.
Conclusion
Kelley Mack’s life and work remind us of the profound ways a creative spirit can touch the world. Her legacy lives on through a rich tapestry of performances, production work, and the memories of those who knew her best. As tributes continue to pour in from every corner of the entertainment industry, the message that shines through is clear: Mack’s kindness, courage, and artistry will not be forgotten. Her journey, though tragically brief, leaves an indelible mark—not only in Hollywood but wherever talent, determination, and heart are valued.
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