George Clooney’s sister, Adelia “Ada” Zeidler, died at the age of 65 after a battle with cancer. Her death occurred on Friday, December 19, 2025, in Kentucky, according to confirmed reports.
The actor shared a personal statement honoring his older sister, describing her strength and courage during her illness. The news has drawn attention as fans learn more about the private life of the Clooney family.
The confirmed cause of death of George Clooney’s sister, Adelia “Ada” Zeidler, was cancer. She died peacefully while surrounded by family and loved ones at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Edgewood, Kentucky.
George Clooney spoke about his sister’s battle with the disease in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE. He said she faced cancer with courage and humor and called her his hero. He added that he and his wife, Amal Clooney, will miss her deeply.
Ada Zeidler was born on May 2, 1960, in Los Angeles. She was the daughter of journalist and television host Nick Clooney and writer Nina Bruce Warren. Despite her brother’s global fame, she lived a largely private life centered on family, education, and community.
According to her obituary, Ada was a talented artist and worked as an elementary art teacher at Augusta Independent School in Kentucky. She was also a National Merit Scholar during her school years and remained active in local cultural groups, including the Augusta Art Guild.
Later in life, she worked as a bookkeeper after attending college in Louisville and Northern Kentucky. Friends and family remembered her as devoted to reading, teaching, and supporting local causes in her hometown of Augusta.
Ada married Norman Zeidler, a retired U.S. Army captain, in 1987. He died in 2004 after suffering a heart attack. She is survived by her two children, her parents, and her brother George Clooney.
The death of Adelia Ada Zeidler has prompted an outpouring of sympathy for the Clooney family. While George Clooney is one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures, his family has long maintained a low public profile.
Ada made occasional public appearances at major family events. She attended George Clooney’s wedding to Amal Clooney in Venice, Italy, in September 2014. Even then, she avoided media attention and returned to private life.
Her obituary highlighted her commitment to education, art, and community service. Memorial donations have been suggested to the Knoedler Memorial Library in Augusta, reflecting her lifelong love of books and learning.
A funeral service is scheduled for Monday, December 22, 2025, in Kentucky. The ceremony will be private, in keeping with the family’s wishes.
