Remembering Kelley Mack: A Tribute to the Actress Who Brought Addy to Life in The Walking Dead

Kelley Mack, an American actress and producer, tragically passed away on August 2, 2025, at the age of 33 after a courageous battle with glioma of the central nervous system. She was best known for her role as Addy in Season 9 of The Walking Dead, where her character met a haunting end at the hands of the Whisperers. Her untimely death has left a profound impact on her fans and the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Career

Born Kelley Lynne Klebenow on July 10, 1992, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Mack developed a passion for storytelling from a young age. After graduating from Hinsdale Central High School in 2010, she pursued a degree in cinematography from Chapman University, graduating in 2014. Her early career included acting in commercials, but she quickly transitioned to more substantial roles in television and film.

Breakthrough Role in The Walking Dead

Mack's most notable role came in 2018 when she joined the cast of The Walking Dead as Addy, a resident of the Hilltop Colony. Her character's tragic fate—being abducted and decapitated by the Whisperers—left a lasting impression on fans. Despite her brief appearance, Mack's performance showcased her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her roles.

Diverse Roles Across Television and Film

Beyond The Walking Dead, Mack's acting career spanned various television series and films. She appeared in episodes of 9-1-1 and Chicago Med, demonstrating her versatility across genres. In film, she portrayed Alice in the psychological thriller Broadcast Signal Intrusion and Wilda in the horror-comedy Delicate Arch. Her final on-screen project was the comedy-drama Universal, where she also served as an executive producer.

Behind the Scenes: Producer and Voice Artist

Mack's talents extended beyond acting. She was a producer on several projects, including the short film A Knock at the Door, which won the Jury Choice Award at the Atlanta Horror Film Festival. Additionally, she lent her voice to various projects, including voice-matching Hailee Steinfeld’s Gwen Stacy in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse .

Personal Life and Legacy

Off-screen, Mack was remembered for her vibrant spirit and love for life. She enjoyed activities such as hiking, biking, playing piano, and traveling. Her family described her as having a “bright, fervent light” that touched everyone she met.

Mack is survived by her parents, siblings, grandparents, and her boyfriend. A public remembrance is scheduled for August 16 in Ohio, with another planned in Los Angeles .

Filmography Highlights

Kelley Mack's passing is a significant loss to the entertainment industry. Her contributions as an actress, producer, and voice artist showcased her multifaceted talent and dedication to her craft. While her time in the spotlight was brief, her impact was profound, and she will be remembered for the depth and authenticity she brought to every role.