Actor Kelley Mack, known for her role in The Walking Dead, has died at the age of 33. Her death comes just seven months after she was diagnosed with glioma, a rare form of central nervous system cancer.
Mack’s sister confirmed the news in a heartfelt Instagram post, stating that the actor passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, surrounded by family. “Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go,” the post read. Her sister also praised Mack’s bravery, adding, “I’m so proud of her.”
Mack first shared her diagnosis publicly in January, detailing a journey that began with persistent back pain the previous September. She was diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma after an MRI revealed a mass in her spinal cord. A subsequent biopsy surgery resulted in the loss of mobility in her legs, requiring her to use a walker and wheelchair. Despite the challenges, she remained optimistic, writing, “I am determined and know that this will eventually be a short chapter in my long book.”
In March, Mack shared positive updates, including the completion of radiation treatment and a video of herself walking up stairs with assistance, a moment she called “a big deal.”
According to her representatives, her death was “very unexpected.” They noted that she had been actively auditioning as recently as June and only informed her team she needed a break in early July. Reports indicated she had a good recovery after initial treatment in February before relapsing shortly before her death.
Mack was best known for her role as Addy in Season 9 of AMC’s The Walking Dead. Her other television credits include appearances on Chicago Med and 9-1-1. Tributes from her costars and the show’s director have been shared following the news of her passing.
A service to remember Mack will be held in her home state of Ohio on August 16. Her family is also planning a celebration of life in Los Angeles for her friends and colleagues.
