The Walking Dead actress

The Walking Dead actress Kelley Mack has died aged 33 after being diagnosed with cancer.

The American star’s death was confirmed on her own social media pages this week, with her family sharing the following statement: ‘It is with indelible sadness that we are announcing the passing of our dear Kelley. Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go.

‘Kelley passed peacefully on Saturday evening with her loving mother Kristen and steadfast aunt Karen present. 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.’

The family went on to share a link to a ‘two-page formal announcement with information on her upcoming life celebration’ – which will be held in Ohio next week.

They concluded the announcement, which included a single photo of Mack, by writing: ‘She would want you all to know how much she loves you. And as her sister, I want you all to know how brave that tough SOB was, especially when she decided to make the leap to be reunited with God. I’m so proud of her.’

The actress, born Kelley Klebenow was from Cincinnati, Ohio, and died on August 2 after being diagnosed with glioma of the central nervous system.

Both the Instagram post and her obituary explained that Mack had ‘passed away peacefully’, surrounded by family.

The post was quickly flooded with tributes to the actress.

‘My deepest condolences, Kelley was such a sweet and happy soul and I’m happy to have met her. She fought so hard. Sending her and your family lots of light and love. Rest easy Kelley,’ actor Anthony Michael Lopez commented.

‘I was lucky enough to create with Kelley on TWD. A bright light on every level. All my love to those who love her,’ director Michael E Satrazemis wrote.

‘This is heartbreaking. I feel so lucky that our paths crossed. Your bright light will always shine on,’ actor Gustavo Gomez added.

Mack, who had 35 credits as an actress to her name, starred Addy in the ninth season of The Walking Dead.

The post-apocalyptic zombie series ran from 11 seasons, starting in 2010 until wrapping up in 2022.

She then went on to play Penelope Jacobs in the eighth season of Chicago Med and appeared in the drama 9-1-1.

Throughout her career she’d also appeared in commercials for Dr. Pepper, Ross stores, Dairy Queen and Chick-fil-a. She is also currently featured in a Rakuten commercial with her mum, Kristen.

After graduating with a degree in cinematography, Mack spent the past 11 years working in Los Angeles.

In their tribute her family wrote that while she won several awards for her work throughout her lifetime, she was known for ‘her warmth, creativity, and unwavering support for those around her’.

‘She cherished time with her family and friends, finding joy in collaboration and storytelling,’ they wrote, adding that she also loved hiking, pickleball, biking, playing piano and traveling.