Michelle Trachtenberg, Star of ‘Buffy’ and ‘Gossip Girl,’ Passes Away at 39

Michelle Trachtenberg, widely recognized for her roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” has passed away at the age of 39, according to US media reports.

Authorities in New York stated that police responded to an emergency call at approximately 8:00 am local time (1300 GMT) on Wednesday.

Upon arrival at her Manhattan apartment, officers found Trachtenberg unconscious and unresponsive. Emergency medical personnel declared her dead at the scene.

Although the cause of death has not been disclosed, authorities confirmed that foul play is not suspected. ABC News, citing anonymous sources, reported that the actress had recently undergone a liver transplant, which may have led to complications.

A Career That Began in Childhood

Born in New York, Trachtenberg started her career at a young age, first appearing in commercials before landing roles on Nickelodeon’s “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” and the soap opera “All My Children” in 1993.

She gained widespread recognition in 1996 as the lead in the film “Harriet the Spy,” starring alongside Rosie O’Donnell.

Her career continued to flourish with multiple projects on Nickelodeon before she landed the role of Dawn Summers, the younger sister of Buffy, on the popular supernatural drama “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” from 2000 to 2003.

Success on Television and Film

Following her success in “Buffy,” Trachtenberg took on the role of Georgina Sparks, a cunning socialite, in the hit television series “Gossip Girl” from 2008 to 2012.

She reprised the role in two episodes of the HBO Max reboot in 2023, marking her final on-screen appearance.

She also had roles in films such as “EuroTrip,” “17 Again,” “The Scribbler,” “Ice Princess,” and “Killing Kennedy.” Throughout her career, Trachtenberg made guest appearances in television series including “Weeds” and “Mercy.”

Tributes from Co-Stars and Friends

Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from her colleagues and co-stars.

Blake Lively, who worked with Trachtenberg on “Gossip Girl,” described her as someone who gave “200%” to everything she did.

“She laughed the fullest at someone’s joke… she cared deeply about her work, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved. She was big and bold and distinctly herself,” Lively wrote on social media.

Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in “Harriet the Spy,” expressed heartbreak over her passing, revealing that the actress had been struggling in recent years.

“I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped,” O’Donnell said.

“Gossip Girl” writer and producer Josh Safran praised Trachtenberg’s talent, saying, “It was an honor and joy to write for Michelle for so many years. She had a clear voice as an actor. You heard her as you typed. She made each line rougher, more real, much funnier—and that made the writing better.”

James Marsters, her co-star from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” described her as “fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person.” He added, “She died much too young and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her.”

Alyson Hannigan, another “Buffy” castmate, shared photos of their time together on set and said Trachtenberg “brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy.”

Health Struggles and Final Years

In the year leading up to her passing, a source told PEOPLE magazine that Trachtenberg had been struggling emotionally and physically. The insider described her as looking “pale, gaunt, and very thin.”

She had reportedly confided in friends about her declining health, with sources revealing that she was “really, really sick and open with those in her circle about how much she was struggling.”

Although she did not publicly disclose her health condition, she responded to comments about her appearance on Instagram in January 2024.

“Fun fact. This is my face,” she captioned a post, addressing speculation about her health. “Not malnutrition, no problems. Why do you have to hate? Get a calendar.”

In another post, she clarified, “I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters.”

Ongoing Investigation

The New York Police Department confirmed that criminal activity is not suspected in her death. “Criminality is not suspected. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing,” the NYPD said in a statement.

According to reports from ABC News, Trachtenberg’s recent liver transplant may have led to fatal complications, though the official cause of death has yet to be determined.

A Lasting Legacy

Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry. She leaves behind a legacy of memorable roles and impactful performances that spanned decades.

From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to her acclaimed roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” she captivated audiences with her talent and presence.

Her final major role was as the host of the true-crime docuseries “Meet, Marry, Murder” in 2021, which aired on the streaming service Tubi.

As Hollywood mourns her loss, her contributions to television and film will continue to be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.