Kelley Mack, the actress who brought Addy to life in Season 9 of The Walking Dead, has died at the age of 33. Born Kelley Klebenow, Mack “passed away peacefully” in her hometown of Cincinnati on Saturday after battling glioma of the central nervous system, according to a statement posted on CaringBridge. Glioma is a type of tumor that affects the brain or spinal cord.
“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,” read a post on Mack’s Instagram on Tuesday, alongside a photo of the actress.
“Kelley was known for her warmth, creativity and unwavering support for those around her,” the CaringBridge statement said. “Her infectious enthusiasm and dedication to her work inspired countless others in the industry and beyond.”
Tributes quickly poured in from friends, fans, and colleagues. “What an incredible human. So proud to have fought alongside her in our final episode together,” wrote The Walking Dead co-star Alanna Masterson.
In the show, Addy was a teenage member of the Hilltop Colony who appeared in Season 9. She was part of a small group of young Hilltop residents — often seen alongside Rodney and Gage, and she was featured most notably in the episodes surrounding the Whisperer conflict. She was among the characters captured by Alpha’s group. The character was tragically killed in the infamous “pike scene” during the episode The Calm Before, where Alpha marked the Whisperers’ territory by placing the severed heads of her victims on stakes.
Where Else Do You Know Kelley Mack From?
In addition to The Walking Dead, she was known for her role as Penelope Jacobs in Season 8 of Chicago Med and appearances on FOX’s 9-1-1. She also built an impressive résumé in commercial and voice-over work, lending her talents to brands like Dr. Pepper, Ross, Dairy Queen, and Chick-fil-A.
Mack is survived by her parents, Kristen and Lindsay Klebenow; her sister Kathryn; brother Parker; grandparents Lois and Larry Klebenow; and her boyfriend, Logan Lanier. “Kelley’s legacy will live on through her contributions to film and television, and in the hearts of those who loved her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her talent, kindness and vibrant spirit,” the statement concluded.
We send our condolences to Kelley Mack‘s friends and family.
via Collider