A Creative Spirit Remembered
Kelley Mack, an American actress, filmmaker, and voice artist, was a rising star whose work inspired many. Best known for her role as Addy in AMC's The Walking Dead, Kelley had a brilliant career ahead. Sadly, her journey was cut short when she passed away at just 33 years old on August 2, 2025, due to a rare form of brain cancer. This article reflects on her life, work, and legacy
Early Life and Creative Spark
Kelley Lynne Klebenow was born on July 10, 1992, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was raised in various parts of the U.S., including North Carolina and Illinois. From a young age, she exhibited immense creativity. A gift of a mini video camera at age 9 sparked her lifelong love for storytelling.
Educational Journey and Foundation in Film
Kelley attended Hinsdale Central High School and graduated in 2010. She then studied cinematography at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, earning a bachelor’s degree in 2014. This academic background laid a strong foundation for her journey as both an actress and a filmmaker.
Breaking into the Industry
Kelley started her career in national commercials for brands like:
- Chick-fil-A
- Credit Karma
- Dr. Pepper
- Dairy Queen
- T-Mobile
Alongside commercials, she voiced Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld’s character) in promotional content for Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Rise to Fame: The Walking Dead
Her breakout role came in season 9 of The Walking Dead as Addy, a strong and intelligent survivor in the Hilltop community. Her performance was appreciated for its depth, emotion, and realism.
Other Major Roles and Projects
Kelley continued to explore challenging roles, appearing in shows like:
- Chicago Med
- 9-1-1
- Freaky Friday the 13th (short film)
She also acted in indie thrillers like:
- Broadcast Signal Intrusion (2021)
- Delicate Arch (2024)
She didn't just act—she wrote, directed, and edited short films, reflecting her vision beyond acting.
The Diagnosis: Diffuse Midline Glioma
In September 2024, Kelley revealed that she had been diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor. Instead of hiding, she shared her battle openly, using her platform to raise awareness. Her social media posts during this period were full of honesty, vulnerability, and courage.
Her Final Days and Peaceful Passing
Kelley passed away on August 2, 2025, in Cincinnati, Ohio, surrounded by her mother and aunt. Her family described her final moments as peaceful and dignified. She faced the end of life with the same grace and strength that marked her career.
Memorials and Tributes
A tribute event will be held on August 16 in Glendale, Ohio, with another gathering scheduled in Los Angeles. Fans across the country and from the Walking Dead fandom have been paying respects through art, videos, and heartfelt messages online.
Remembering Kelley Mack’s Legacy
Though her life was short, Kelley Mack’s contributions to film, television, and voiceover continue to inspire. She will be remembered not only for her talent but also for her bravery and authenticity. Her passion for storytelling lives on in the work she left behind and the hearts she touched.
Final Thoughts
Kelley Mack’s story is a powerful reminder of how precious life is. She chased her dreams, shared her truths, and stood tall—even in her final battle. As we remember her today, let us celebrate a woman who lived fully, gave generously, and inspired endlessly.
