Kelley Mack, one of the stars of The Walking Dead and Chicago Med…well, she was good and has also died. She passed away on August 2 at the too-young age of 33. The Cincinnati, Ohio, native lost her battle with diffuse midline glioma, a rare tumor that affects the brain and central nervous system. Her family released the following statement upon her death, with thoughts of sorrow tempered by recognition of the remarkable impact she had on their lives.
Born Kelley Klebenow, Mack had spent her childhood moving around Ohio, North Carolina, and Illinois. She is best known for her performance as Alice in the horror feature Broadcast Signal Intrusion. This performance brought her range front and center, showcasing her talents across the entertainment industry. In addition to her on-screen talent, Mack proved she was a triple threat as a producer, writer and voiceover artist on the show.
Mack’s trajectory in acting eventually found her playing prominent roles in the theater throughout her life. She portrayed Addy during the ninth season of the acclaimed series “The Walking Dead,” gaining recognition among fans of the show. Plus, she is creating quite a mark within the television landscape, having played Penelope Jacobs for the entirety of the eighth season of “Chicago Med.”
In January, Mack was diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma, which is considered terminal. It followed a period during which he had been suffering chronic lower back pain and radiating pain down his legs and back. This is especially rare and aggressive form of astrocytoma cancer. In all of her years of fighting the disease, she didn’t let it stop her from doing what she loved and inspiring others in the process.
Mack was the oldest of three children. She has one sister, Kathryn, and one brother, Parker, who is also an actor. The family expressed their sorrow over the loss in a statement:
“It is with indelible sadness that we are announcing the passing of our dear Kelley.” – Mack’s family
Help us honor Kelley Mack’s legacy on August 16 in Glendale, Ohio. Watch this space for a follow-up event to take place in Los Angeles at a future date! Friends, family, and fans are to gather to share and celebrate her legacy, artistry and contributions to the arts.
