A Radiant Light Extinguished Too Soon: Remembering Kelley Mack
The entertainment world mourns the loss of Kelley Mack, a talented actress and cinematographer, who tragically passed away on August 2nd, 2025, at the young age of 33. Her passing, announced by her family via the CaringBridge online platform, leaves a void in the hearts of her loved ones and colleagues. This post celebrates her life and remarkable career, cut short by a devastating illness.
From Cincinnati to Hollywood: Kelley Mack’s Journey
Early Life and Education
Kelley Lynne Klebenow, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, embarked on a journey that would take her far beyond her hometown. Her childhood spanned several Ohio locations, including Wyoming and Mount Lookout, before settling in Hinsdale, Illinois, where she graduated from Hinsdale Central High School in 2010. Her passion for filmmaking led her to Chapman University’s prestigious Dodge College of Film, from which she graduated in 2014 with a degree in cinematography.
A Career Defined by Passion and Talent
Following graduation, Mack relocated to Los Angeles, where she immersed herself in the vibrant world of film and television. Over the next eleven years, she built a solid career, showcasing her versatility both in front of and behind the camera. Her dedication and talent are evident in her diverse range of roles and contributions.
A Legacy on Screen and Beyond
Mack’s contributions to the entertainment industry extended beyond her prominent role as Addy in the hit television series “The Walking Dead” (2018-2019). Her impressive resume includes appearances in “Chicago Med,” “Broadcast Signal Intrusion,” and a credit as part of the crew for the critically acclaimed animated film “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” She also appeared in other notable productions like “9-1-1,” “The AM Archives,” “Vincent,” “Violet,” and most recently, “Universal.”
A Battle with Brain Cancer
The details surrounding Mack’s passing reveal a heartbreaking struggle. Her family shared that she succumbed to glioma of the central nervous system, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. As the Mayo Clinic explains, gliomas originate in the brain or spinal cord, potentially forming tumors that impact surrounding tissue and cause various symptoms depending on their location and growth rate.
Remembering a Bright Light
Mack’s family beautifully described her as “a bright, fervent light,” a sentiment echoed by those who knew her. Her vibrant spirit and dedication to her craft will be deeply missed. She leaves behind a loving family: parents Kristen and Lindsay Klebenow, sister Kathryn, brother Parker, grandparents Lois and Larry Klebenow, and her boyfriend, Logan Lanier.
A Celebration of Life
A remembrance service is planned for August 16th at 1 p.m. at the Glendale Lyceum in Glendale, Ohio. A separate celebration of life in Los Angeles for her friends and colleagues in the industry will be held at a later date. This is a testament to the wide-ranging impact she had on those fortunate enough to know her.
Important Note: This blog post is intended to celebrate the life and achievements of Kelley Mack. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns.
