Kelley Mack, an actress who starred in The Walking Dead and FOX’s 9-1-1, has sadly passed away aged 33.
Her death was confirmed on August 2 in her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio, where she “passed away peacefully” surrounded by family, per Metro.
The news was shared via posts on her social media accounts and the website CaringBridge, where her family released a heartfelt statement: “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.”
Born Kelley Klebenow, the actress had built a strong career in film and television, earning 35 acting credits and five as a producer.
She rose to prominence as Addy in Season 9 of The Walking Dead, and later appeared as Penelope Jacobs in Chicago Med and on FOX’s 9-1-1.
The announcement of her passing was accompanied by an emotional tribute from her family, who shared that she died with her mother Kristen and aunt Karen by her side: “Kelley passed peacefully on Saturday evening with her loving mother Kristen and steadfast aunt Karen present.
"Kelley has already come to many of her loved ones in the form of various butterflies. She will be missed by so many to depths that words cannot express.”
They also linked to a formal two-page announcement with details for her upcoming life celebration in Ohio and included a touching final message: “She would want you all to know how much she loves you.
"And as her sister, I want you all to know how brave that tough SOB was, especially when she decided to make the leap to be reunited with God. I’m so proud of her.”
Kelley died following a battle with glioma, a form of cancer affecting the central nervous system, per CNN.
Her obituary and social media tributes highlighted her professional accomplishments and personal warmth.
She had recently shared updates on her health journey with fans, including a message in March that read: “Overall, this journey has not been easy, but things are getting better — improvements are tough to see when you’re in the thick of it. Thank you again and again for the support and prayers.”
She began acting in commercials as a child after discovering a love for storytelling, sparked by receiving a mini video camera as a birthday gift.
Over the years, she appeared in national spots for Dr. Pepper, Ross stores, Dairy Queen, Chick-fil-A, and, most recently, Rakuten — a commercial she filmed alongside her mother.
Her work behind the camera was just as notable.
After graduating with a degree in cinematography from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, she spent the past 11 years living and working in Los Angeles.
Kelley’s posthumous appearance in the upcoming film Universal, which she also executive-produced, will mark her final screen credit.
Our thoughts are with Kelley's loved ones at this difficult time.