A Bright Light Dimmed: The Unexpected Passing of Walking Dead Actress at 33

Tragic News That Shook Hollywood

The entertainment world mourns the loss of Kelley Mack, the talented actress best known for her role as Addy in Season 9 of The Walking Dead. She tragically passed away at the age of 33 on August 2, 2025, after a brave and heartbreaking battle with diffuse midline glioma, a rare and aggressive form of brain and spinal cancer.

Her death came less than a year after she was diagnosed, following symptoms that initially seemed like simple back pain. The illness quickly progressed, impacting her mobility and ultimately taking her life far too soon.

Her Bright Career in Acting

Kelley Mack was born on July 10, 1992, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and entered the world of performance as a child, starting in commercials and modeling.

She made her film debut in 2013’s At the Top of the Pyramid, and later appeared in various roles across television and film. Her career highlights include:

• The Walking Dead (as Addy) – the role that brought her international recognition

• Chicago Med (as Penelope Jacobs)

• 9-1-1, Broadcast Signal Intrusion, and Delicate Arch

• She was set to appear in the upcoming sci-fi film Universal

In addition to acting, Kelley was also a producer and co-writer, with credits in short films and indie projects. Her creativity extended behind the camera, where she nurtured original stories and brought them to life.

Her Illness and Courageous Battle

In September 2024, Kelley began experiencing lower back pain, initially believed to be a slipped disc. Further medical testing revealed something far more serious—a tumor pressing on her spinal cord. By November 2024, she was officially diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma, an extremely rare and incurable form of cancer that typically affects children.

Despite undergoing radiation therapy and other treatments, the illness progressed rapidly. Kelley faced physical limitations, losing the use of her legs, but never lost her hope or humor. She remained open and honest about her journey on social media, continuing to inspire fans with her courage and grace.

Remembering Kelley

Kelley Mack passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family in Cincinnati. Her final days were filled with love, reflection, and peace.

Her family shared that in the days following her passing, they saw butterflies—a symbol of her spirit and a sign that her energy lives on. A celebration of life will be held on August 16, 2025, in her hometown, with another planned in Los Angeles for her friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry.

Prayers and Tribute

Our hearts go out to Kelley’s family, friends, and fans around the world. We pray her soul finds eternal peace and that her memory remains a guiding light for those who loved her. She was more than just a talented actress—she was a fighter, a dreamer, and a beautiful soul whose light touched many.

May her soul rest in peace, and may her legacy shine on through the roles she played, the stories she told, and the hearts she moved. ????️