‘The Walking Dead’ Star Dies at 33 — Cause of Death Revealed
Kelley Mack, an actress best known for her role in the hit TV show “The Walking Dead,” has died at the age of 33.
The news was shared through a post on her Instagram page on Tuesday, along with a heartfelt message and a photo of her. According to a statement posted on CaringBridge, Mack, whose full name was Kelley Klebenow, died peacefully on Saturday in her hometown of Cincinnati after battling glioma, a tumor that affects the brain or spinal cord.
Her family wrote on Instagram, “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.”
Tributes have been pouring in from friends, colleagues, and fans. Actress Alanna Masterson, who also appeared in “The Walking Dead,” remembered her by saying, “What an incredible human. So proud to have fought alongside her in our final episode together.”
Mack was known for her warmth, talent, and creative spirit. The CaringBridge post described her as someone whose “infectious enthusiasm and dedication to her work inspired countless others in the industry and beyond.”
She first gained wide attention for playing Addy in season 9 of “The Walking Dead.” She also appeared in “Chicago Med” as Penelope Jacobs and made guest appearances on FOX’s “9-1-1.” Beyond TV, she worked on commercials for brands like Dr. Pepper, Dairy Queen, Ross, and Chick-fil-A.
Mack’s love for storytelling started when she got a small video camera as a birthday gift when she was young. She began acting in commercials as a child and later studied cinematography at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts in California.
Over her career, she earned 35 acting credits and 5 producer credits. She also worked in voice-overs and stayed active in creative projects throughout her life.
She is survived by her parents Kristen and Lindsay Klebenow, her sister Kathryn, her brother Parker, her grandparents Lois and Larry Klebenow, and her boyfriend Logan Lanier.
The statement from her family said, “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.”
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