Kelley Mack, an actress known for her role as "Addy" in "The Walking Dead," has passed away at age 33. The Ohio native died on August 2 after being diagnosed with glioma of the central nervous system, leaving behind a legacy of artistic contributions across television, film, and commercial work.

According to People, Mack's death was confirmed by her family through her official obituary and a message shared on her Instagram account on Tuesday, August 5. The post described her as "a bright, fervent light" who had "transitioned to the beyond."

Both her Instagram announcement and obituary stated that Mack, born Kelley Klebenow, "passed away peacefully" with family members by her side. The actress had built an impressive career with 35 acting credits and five producer credits before her untimely death.

Rising Television Star With Notable Roles

Mack appeared in season 9 of the long-running zombie apocalypse series "The Walking Dead," which concluded its 11-season run in 2022. Her character "Addy" added to the rich tapestry of survivors in the post-apocalyptic world that captivated audiences for over a decade.

Beyond her work in "The Walking Dead," Mack secured roles in other popular television series. She portrayed "Penelope Jacobs" in season 8 of NBC's medical drama "Chicago Med" and made an appearance on FOX's emergency response drama "9-1-1," showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Her film credits included the role of "Alice" in the thriller "Broadcast Signal Intrusion" and "Wilda" in the recently released "Delicate Arch." Mack's diverse portfolio demonstrated her range and commitment to her craft across various genres and platforms.

Voice Work And Commercial Success

Mack's talents extended beyond on-screen appearances to include significant voice work in the entertainment industry. One of her most notable voice performances was as the voice match for Hailee Steinfeld's character, Gwen Stacy, in the Oscar-winning animated film "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse."

The actress was also a familiar face in commercial work, appearing in advertisements for major brands including Dr. Pepper, Ross stores, Dairy Queen, and Chick-fil-A. At the time of her death, she was featured in a Rakuten commercial alongside her mother, Kristen.

Mack's commercial success demonstrated her appeal to mainstream audiences and her ability to represent brands effectively. This aspect of her career showcased her approachable personality and natural charisma that made her relatable to viewers.

Early Life And Educational Background

Mack's journey into storytelling began at an early age when she received a video camera as a birthday gift. This early introduction to filmmaking sparked her passion for the creative arts and led her to pursue acting in commercials as a child.

Her formal education included graduating from Hinsdale Central High School in 2010, followed by earning a bachelor's degree in cinematography from Dodge College of Film at Chapman University in Orange, California, in 2014. This academic foundation gave her the technical knowledge to complement her natural performance abilities.

After completing her education, Mack established herself in the Los Angeles area, where she lived and worked for the past 11 years until her death. Her academic background in film studies likely informed her approach to performance and contributed to her understanding of the storytelling process from multiple perspectives.

Lessons to Learn From This Tragedy

1. The importance of early medical diagnosis: Gliomas of the central nervous system can be life-altering and difficult to detect in early stages. Regular health checkups and consultations with medical professionals when symptoms appear—no matter how minor—can make a difference in treatment options and outcomes.

2. The power of documenting your story: Mack’s life demonstrates a passion for storytelling that helped shape her legacy. Communicating openly with family, friends, and the community can carve a lasting impact and help people better understand one another’s journeys, especially during times of health or personal hardship.

3. Support systems matter greatly: The actress’s final moments were eased by loving family and friends, a reminder that offering emotional support during tough times can deeply affect someone’s quality of life. While no set of supportive actions can prevent tragedy entirely, they do bring comfort to those fighting personal battles—proof of the human capacity for kindness and connection.

Why This Story Matters

Kelley Mack’s passing resonates throughout the entertainment community and beyond, shining light on the fragility of life. Her talent touched countless viewers, and her presence off-screen will be remembered by colleagues and fans alike. As an accomplished young actress with a growing body of work, her death reminds us that illness and tragedy can strike even those who seem to have it all. Her story amplifies the importance of cherishing time, sharing creativity, and offering support.

Conclusion

Kelley Mack, acclaimed for her portrayal of Addy on “The Walking Dead” and beloved across several screen genres, passed away on Aug. 2, 2025, at 33 due to glioma of the central nervous system. She leaves behind a family that stood by her side in her final days, a broad list of TV and film credits, fulfilled dreams born of a childhood passion, and a community mourning her loss. Her life, marked by artistry and empathy, serves as a reminder of storytelling’s power and the beauty of human connection.