CINCINNATI, OH — August 5, 2025 — Actress Kelley Mack, known for her roles in The Walking Dead, Chicago Med, and 9-1-1, has died at the age of 33 following a courageous battle with glioma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the central nervous system. Her death was confirmed by her sister, Kathryn Klebenow, via a heartfelt message on social media.
Mack, whose birth name was Kelley Lynne Klebenow, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, surrounded by her mother Kristen and her aunt Karen in her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. According to Kathryn, “She fought with bravery, creativity, and grace — and left this world peacefully.”
From Screen Star to Advocate
Mack gained national recognition for portraying Addy in AMC’s hit series The Walking Dead. She also appeared in guest roles on Chicago Med and 9-1-1, and notably voiced Gwen Stacy in the Oscar-winning animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Beyond her acting, Mack was a producer and advocate. After being diagnosed in January 2025, she used her platform to raise awareness of glioma through personal posts on Instagram and entries in a dedicated blog. She described her journey with honesty, inspiring fans and fellow patients alike.
A Private Battle Made Public
Kelley first shared her diagnosis in early 2025 after experiencing persistent back and leg pain. Doctors later confirmed she had glioma, a rare and often fatal form of brain cancer. She underwent aggressive treatment while continuing to update her followers about her health.
Tributes From Co-Stars and Creatives
Tributes poured in following her passing. The Walking Dead director Michael E. Satrazemis called her “a bright light on and off the screen.” Fellow actors described her as “a creative soul” and “a force of inspiration.”
Celebrating Her Life
Celebrations of Kelley Mack’s life will take place in both Cincinnati and Los Angeles. She is survived by her mother Kristen, sister Kathryn, aunt Karen, and her extended family, including many fans whose lives she touched.
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