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The Walking Dead Actress Kelley Mack's Cause of Death Revealed
The people in Kelley Mack’s life are still reeling from her loss.
Following The Walking Death actress’ death on Aug. 2 at the age of 33 following a battle with a type of cancer called diffuse midline glioma—which in her case caused a tumor to develop on her spinal cord—a representative of Kelley shared she was “totally surprised” by her passing.
According to the statement shared with People, the rep had been auditioning Kelley (real name Kelley Lynne Klebenow) for roles up until June, adding of her health, “We had no idea the turn it took and it was very unexpected.”
Kelley’s death was announced on social media by her sister Kathryn, who shared the news with “indelible sadness.”
“Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go,” the Aug. 5 post read, noting Kelley passed peacefully with loved ones by her side. “Kelley has already come to many of her loved ones in the form of various butterflies. She will be missed by so many to depths that words cannot express.”
Kelley shared her diagnosis with diffuse midline glioma in January, explaining at the time it was an "an extremely rare" type of astrocytoma cancer. After months of various symptoms, including persistent lower back pain, neuropathic itching in her right quad and shooting pains through her legs and back, a November MRI had revealed a mass in her spinal cord.
Kelley Mack / Instagram
She underwent a biopsy surgery, which caused her to lose temporary use of her right leg and most of her left, and then radiation proton therapy.
Despite the challenges, Kelley shared her gratitude to have her loved ones by her side, including her boyfriend Logan.
“I am very grateful to have such a supportive and loving family and boyfriend, who have been with me every second of this process,” she wrote in the January 3 post. “It has been a very emotional and challenging time, truly testing my mental fortitude, faith, and physical strength. They are so positive and we have a sense of calm knowing that my healing is taking place and we will overcome.”
She also found comfort in faith, adding, “This experience has brought me closer to God, and I am leaning on him and trust his plan for me.”
In addition to her onscreen work—which, in addition to The Walking Dead, includes appearances on Chicago Med and 9-1-1, as well as roles in Broadcast Signal Intrusion and Universal—Kelley’s loved ones praised her for her “talent, kindness, and vibrant spirit.”
“Kelley was known for her warmth, creativity, and unwavering support for those around her,” her obituary read. “She cherished time with family and friends, finding joy in collaboration and storytelling. Her infectious enthusiasm and dedication to her work inspired countless others in the industry and beyond.”
For more on Kelley’s life, keep reading.
Barry Brecheisen/Getty Images
Professional Milestones
Kelley celebrated the premiere of her movie Broadcast Signal IntrusIon at the Chicago Film Festival in 2021.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
Sharing Her World
Kelley often posted her personal and professional highlights to social media, keep fans up to date on her inner world.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
Exploring the Outdoors
Many of Kelley's posts included her boyfriend, Logan.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
Ups and Downs
The 9-1-1 actress also kept fans up to date on her journey with diffuse midline glioma, a rare form of cancer.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
Like Mother, Like Daughter
Kelley and her mother worked on screenwriting together, including On The Black—a 1950s era project based on her maternal grandparents' story.
Amanda Edwards/Getty Images
On Screens
In addition to Broadcast Signal Intrusion, Kelley also appeared in The Walking Dead as Addy, and enjoyed guest roles on 9-1-1 and Chicago Med.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
In The Studio
Kelley also did voiceover work, often sharing glimpses of the recording process.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
Family Forever
The 33-year-old's family were by her side throughout her health journey.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
With Loved Ones
In the spring, Kelley enjoyed a trip to Florida to spend time with family.
Instagram/Kelley Mack
Love Endures
Of Logan, Kelley wrote, "My love, always by my side."
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