Michelle Trachtenberg, the versatile actress celebrated for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, has passed away at the age of 39.
She was found unresponsive in her New York City apartment on February 26, 2025. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected. The New York City Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled her cause of death as “undetermined” after her family objected to an autopsy for religious reasons.
Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg began her acting career at the tender age of three, appearing in commercials before transitioning to television and film. She gained early recognition as the titular character in Harriet the Spy (1996) and further showcased her talent in projects like Inspector Gadget (1999) and EuroTrip (2004). Her portrayal of Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2000–2003) and Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl (2008–2012) solidified her status as a dynamic presence in the entertainment industry.
In recent years, Trachtenberg faced health challenges, including a liver transplant months before her passing. Sources indicate she had been “really, really sick” and open with friends about her struggles. Despite these challenges, she remained active in her career, reprising her role as Georgina Sparks in the 2023 Gossip Girl reboot.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends. Sarah Michelle Gellar, her Buffy co-star, shared a heartfelt message paraphrasing Buffy’s speech from the series. Blake Lively, her Gossip Girl co-star, described her as a bold and loyal friend. Princess Eugenie also mourned the loss of her “special friend,” highlighting Trachtenberg’s kind and humorous nature.
Trachtenberg’s contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark, and she will be deeply missed by fans and peers alike.
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