Kelley Lynne Mack
(1992–2025): The Heart and Soul Behind the Screen
The entertainment world
mourns the loss of a bright, talented soul — Kelley Mack, born Kelley Lynne Klebenow,
who left us too soon at the age of 33 on August 2, 2025. Known for her radiant
personality, artistic brilliance, and deep emotional depth on screen, she
carved a niche for herself in Hollywood with roles that will be remembered
forever.
Born on July 10, 1992, in
Cincinnati, Ohio, Kelley’s journey into the world of acting began early. From
her childhood days in local commercials to her breakthrough role as Chloe in
*The Elephant Garden* (2008), Kelley demonstrated not only raw talent but also
a passion that set her apart. That film earned her an Acting Award from the
prestigious Tisch School of the Arts and went on to win the Student Visionary
Award at the Tribeca Film Festival.
A Career of Depth,
Passion, and Purpose
Kelley’s acting career
truly began to flourish when she landed the recurring role of Addy in Season 9
of *The Walking Dead*, appearing in five powerful episodes between 2018 and
2019. Her compelling screen presence captivated millions of fans worldwide. But
her career was far from one-dimensional. She brought her talent to popular
shows like *9-1-1*, *Chicago Med*, and even *Modern Family* spin-offs, proving
her versatility in drama, action, and comedy.
In 2021, she co-starred
in the indie horror-thriller *Broadcast Signal Intrusion*, alongside Harry Shum
Jr. Her performance added depth to the mysterious narrative and received
critical acclaim. She was also cast in *Mr. Manhattan* and was set to shine in
the upcoming project *Universal*, where she also worked as an executive producer.
But Kelley wasn’t just in
front of the camera—she was a powerhouse behind it too. In 2016, she produced
the award-winning short film *A Knock at the Door*, which won the Festival
Award at the Atlanta Horror Film Festival. In 2015, she wrote, directed, and
edited *Positive*, a short film that showed her deep understanding of emotional
storytelling.
She was also the voice
behind Gwen Stacy in the Oscar-winning *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse*,
voiced by Hailee Steinfeld, proving that her influence extended beyond
traditional screen roles into animation and voice acting.
A Brave Battle With
Illness
In 2024, Kelley was
diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer known as Diffuse
Midline Glioma. Despite undergoing difficult surgeries and losing mobility in
her legs, Kelley faced her diagnosis with immense courage and optimism. She
chronicled her journey with honesty on Instagram, becoming a source of hope and
strength for others battling similar conditions.
In a heartwarming video
shared in March 2025, Kelley proudly showcased her progress—walking up and down
stairs with the support of her devoted boyfriend, Logan. Her spirit remained
unshaken, and she continued to audition, act, and inspire others despite her
physical limitations.
Her Final Days and
Legacy
Kelley passed away
peacefully with her mother, Kristen, and aunt, Karen, by her side. Her sister
Kathryn announced the heartbreaking news, sharing that Kelley had already
visited many of her loved ones in the form of butterflies—a symbol of
transformation and peace.
“She would want you all
to know how much she loves you,” Kathryn wrote. “And as her sister, I want you
to know how brave she was. I’m so proud of her.”
A memorial service is
scheduled for August 16 in her hometown in Ohio, where friends, family, and
fans will gather to celebrate the extraordinary life of this unforgettable
woman.
The Power of
Storytelling
Kelley once said, “I love
acting so much, and it warms me to know when others are touched by the stories
I’m lucky to be a part of.” That love for storytelling shaped everything she
did. Her dedication, her warmth, and her talent will continue to resonate with
generations to come.
Kelley Mack didn’t just
act — she lived fully, loved deeply, and left behind a legacy that will inspire
millions. She may be gone from this world, but her light shines on through
every frame she touched.
