Actress Kelley Mack, best known for her role in The Walking Dead, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, in Cincinnati at the age of 33, just weeks after celebrating her birthday on July 10. Her family shared the news on CaringBridge and Instagram, with her sister Kathryn describing Kelley as a bright light who will be deeply missed.
Kelley had been courageously fighting a rare and aggressive brain cancer called diffuse midline glioma, which affected her spinal cord and caused paralysis in most of her legs. Despite these severe challenges, she remained hopeful and leaned on her family, boyfriend Logan Lanier, and her faith. She underwent proton radiation therapy in Cincinnati and continued to share updates with fans, showing strength and positivity.
Born Kelley Lynne Klebenow in Cincinnati, she grew up in Ohio and Illinois, graduating from Hinsdale Central High School and later earning a cinematography degree from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film. Over 11 years in Los Angeles, she built a steady career, appearing as Addy in The Walking Dead and guest roles in Chicago Med, 9-1-1, and more. She also worked behind the scenes on the Oscar-winning Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
A remembrance service is planned for August 16 at Glendale Lyceum in Ohio, with a separate celebration of life to be held in Los Angeles.
Kelley’s passing coincides with the recent death of legendary actress Loni Anderson on August 3, 2025, just two days before her 80th birthday. Anderson was beloved for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati and had a long, distinguished career in film and television. Both women leave behind legacies of talent, courage, and inspiration.