Kelley Mack, of 'The Walking Dead' and '9-1-1,' Dies at 33 After Rare Brain Tumor Battle

• by Arlen Fitzpatrick
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Kelley Mack's Early Start and On-Screen Journey

Kelley Mack wasn't just another face in the crowd—she was the kind of actress you remembered long after the credits rolled. Born Klebenow, Kelley found her way into acting while still a kid, turning what most kids see as make believe into a lifelong calling. She really started turning heads with her role as Addy in season nine of The Walking Dead. That role meant something to fans; she brought a raw, believable energy to the screen that stuck out, even among a sea of post-apocalyptic chaos.

But Kelley didn’t stop there. She livened up episodes of procedural hits like *9-1-1* in 2019 and *Chicago Med* in 2022. Some fans still talk about her turns on *Unusual Suspects*, *Not Your Average Joe*, and *Unscrewed* back in 2015 and 2016. She built her career project by project, each new part revealing a bit more of her natural on-screen warmth and versatility. Just watching Kelley work, you could see the spark—she was all in, every time the cameras rolled.

Her Struggle with Glioma and Unyielding Resilience

Behind the smiles, Kelley fought a tough, private battle. She was diagnosed with glioma, a rare and relentless tumor that attacks the brain or spinal cord. Even when faced with this diagnosis, Kelley’s resilience turned heads. Her family talked about her bravery; they saw her face pain and uncertainty with a rare kind of courage that doesn’t often make headlines. Even as her world grew smaller, she never lost her signature warmth, quick sense of humor, or drive to uplift others.

Kelley passed away peacefully on August 2nd in her hometown of Cincinnati, with her loved ones by her side. Her family remembers her as a "bright, fervent light." Her sister Kathryn said Kelley inspired those around her—through her art, loyalty, and the way she braved her health challenges without losing hope or kindness. She made a big mark on everyone who knew her personally, not just viewers tuning in each week.

Family meant the world to Kelley. She leaves behind her parents Kristen and Lindsay, her siblings Kathryn and Parker, and grandparents Lois and Larry. She also shared her life with her boyfriend, Logan Lanier. All of them carry those Kelley moments with them—the ones fans never get to see off screen.

While Kelley’s journey in life has ended way too soon, her work isn’t finished yet. Her final film, Universal, is set to be released in 2025. She’ll appear alongside Rosa Robson and Joe Thomas, giving viewers and fans one more chance to see her artistry at work.

No one who watched Kelley act—whether as a caring medic, a quick-thinking survivor, or in any of her many scene-stealing roles—will forget her. Her natural talent, bold spirit, and courage in the face of disease leave a mark that feels both personal and universal. Her story is a reminder that, sometimes, the brightest lights go out far too soon, but their warmth lingers long after.