Kelley Mack, best known for her roles in some of television’s most popular dramas, made a significant impact with her portrayal of Penelope Jacobs in the acclaimed medical drama “Chicago Med.” On August 2, 2025, the entertainment world mourned her passing at the age of 33, following a courageous and public battle with glioma of the central nervous system. Her role in “Chicago Med” stands as a testament to her emotional depth and acting talent.
Kelley Mack appeared in season 8, episode 6 of “Chicago Med,” titled “Mama Said There Would Be Days Like This.” She played Penelope Jacobs, a new single mother who arrives at the hospital overwhelmed and fearful for her baby’s well-being. Penelope’s anxiety and intrusive thoughts led her to seek help from Dr. Charles and Dr. Choi, two of the series’ beloved characters. The storyline explored the delicate subject of postpartum depression and Bell’s Palsy, bringing sensitivity and nuance to a topic that resonates with many real families.
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The Character of Penelope Jacobs
First Appearance: Season 8, Episode 6 (“Mama Said There Would Be Days Like This”)
Portrayed By: Kelley Mack
Role: Single mother suffering from severe postpartum anxiety and Bell’s Palsy
Series: Chicago Med
Penelope Jacobs made a memorable first appearance in Chicago Med Season 8, Episode 6, titled “Mama Said There Would Be Days Like This.” As a single mother grappling with intense postpartum anxiety and a sudden diagnosis of Bell’s Palsy, Penelope’s character immediately drew attention. Her storyline was not just another case-of-the-week—it was a deeply moving exploration of maternal mental health that resonated with many viewers.
From the moment Penelope entered the hospital, visibly overwhelmed and frightened by her symptoms, it became clear that her journey would carry emotional weight. Her physical condition—Bell’s Palsy, which had left part of her face paralyzed—was only part of a larger, more complex struggle. Underneath it all, she was silently battling the emotional turmoil that often accompanies postpartum anxiety, a condition frequently misunderstood or dismissed.
Kelley Mack’s portrayal of Penelope Jacobs was both vulnerable and powerful. She infused the character with raw emotion, fear, and a desperate yearning to be understood. Her performance humanized a condition that’s often reduced to statistics or simplified narratives. Rather than portraying Penelope as just another patient, Mack allowed the audience to see her as a woman who loved her child deeply but was drowning under the weight of expectations, isolation, and self-doubt.
The episode’s writers crafted a compelling arc for Penelope, using her case to highlight the importance of both emotional and physical health care for new mothers. It also opened the door for meaningful on-screen conversations between the hospital staff, particularly the attending physicians and therapists, about the need for holistic treatment approaches. In a culture where postpartum challenges are often hidden behind smiles and Instagram filters, Chicago Med took a bold step by placing a character like Penelope at the center of an episode.
Critics lauded the episode for its thoughtful writing, but it was Mack’s emotionally charged performance that left a lasting impression. Viewers praised her authenticity and noted how accurately she conveyed the helplessness and fear associated with postpartum disorders. Her depiction of Penelope didn’t shy away from the messy, raw truth of motherhood. Instead, it celebrated resilience and emphasized that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Penelope’s story also served as a subtle reminder of how easily women’s health concerns—especially mental health issues—can be overlooked or misunderstood. The medical team’s initial focus on her neurological symptoms slowly evolved into a deeper awareness of her emotional state. By the end of the episode, viewers witnessed a turning point not only in Penelope’s condition but in the awareness and compassion of those treating her.
In many ways, Penelope Jacobs became more than just a one-episode character. She represented countless women who silently endure postpartum anxiety and depression, often without the support they desperately need. Her story prompted online discussions, social media shares, and even blog posts from new mothers who related to her pain and confusion.
Ultimately, Penelope’s arc emphasized the critical need for empathy in the healthcare system. Her experience spotlighted how vital it is for doctors, nurses, friends, and family to listen, to notice the signs, and to offer support. Chicago Med didn’t just give us another medical mystery—it gave us a human story that mattered.
Kelley Mack’s performance ensured that Penelope Jacobs would not be forgotten anytime soon. Through her, the show successfully turned a clinical diagnosis into a deeply human experience, urging society to be more understanding of the hidden battles many mothers face every day.
Kelley Mack’s Acting Career & Recent News
Beyond “Chicago Med,” Kelley Mack achieved recognition through her recurring roles in hit shows like “The Walking Dead,” where she played Addy, and her guest appearances in “9-1-1”. Her career spanned commercials, independent films, and voice-over work, with each role demonstrating her versatility and dedication to her craft.
In early 2025, Kelley Mack candidly shared her health journey on social media, detailing a diagnosis of diffuse midline glioma—a rare and aggressive brain tumor. She underwent proton radiation therapy and was transparent about her struggles and hopes, drawing admiration and support from fans worldwide. Her sister confirmed her peaceful passing in Cincinnati, surrounded by family. Plans for a celebration of her life are set for August 16 in Ohio, with another memorial scheduled later in Los Angeles.
Kelley Mack’s Legacy and Impact
- Advocate for Mental Health: Through her dynamic roles, especially as Penelope Jacobs, Kelley Mack contributed to raising awareness around mental health, motherhood, and resilience.
- Versatile Actress: Her body of work includes procedurals, horror, drama, and heartfelt indie films, reflecting her commitment to storytelling in all its forms.
- Fondly Remembered: Colleagues, fans, and family continue to celebrate her artistry, kindness, and the positive influence she leaves behind.
| Notable Work | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Med | Penelope Jacobs | 2022 |
| The Walking Dead | Addy | Season 9 |
| 9-1-1 | Guest Star | 2019 |
| Broadcast Signal Intrusion | Alice | 2021 |
As tributes pour in, it’s evident how deeply Kelley Mack touched those who watched her on screen. Her professionalism and authenticity made Penelope Jacobs—and every character she portrayed—memorable and meaningful.
If Kelley Mack’s portrayal in “Chicago Med” resonated with you, or if you want to share your favorite memories, let us know in the comments below. The impact she made in such a short time is a reminder of the power of great storytelling and genuine talent.