Michelle Trachtenberg, best known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, has passed away at the age of 39. The actress, who appeared in more than 60 films and television shows throughout her decades-long career, was found unresponsive in her New York City apartment on February 26. Her passing comes just months after undergoing a liver transplant, with reports indicating she may have experienced complications from the surgery.
Trachtenberg began acting at just three years old, landing her first television role in a commercial for Wisk laundry detergent. By age six, she had already made a guest appearance on Law & Order and later starred in the Nickelodeon series The Adventures of Pete & Pete and Clarissa Explains It All.
Her breakthrough came in 1996 with the title role in Harriet the Spy, where she starred alongside Rosie O’Donnell. This led to roles in Inspector Gadget (1999) and, most notably, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, where she played Dawn Summers, the younger sister of Sarah Michelle Gellar’s character, for the show’s final three seasons.
Reflecting on her time on Buffy, Trachtenberg shared in 2008, "I learned a lot from 14 to 17 on the show, and that was the best high school experience and life experience."
Her career continued to flourish with roles in EuroTrip (2004), Six Feet Under, and Ice Princess (2005). However, it was her portrayal of Georgina Sparks on Gossip Girl that solidified her place as a fan favorite. Initially introduced as a one-season antagonist, Georgina's character became a recurring presence throughout the show’s six seasons and later returned in the reboot in 2022 and 2023.
In the months leading up to her death, Trachtenberg underwent a liver transplant, according to multiple reports. While no official cause of death has been determined, sources suggest she may have experienced complications related to the surgery. The New York Police Department confirmed there were no signs of foul play, and the Medical Examiner is conducting an investigation.
Trachtenberg was found unresponsive in her apartment after a 911 call was placed by her mother on the morning of February 26. Emergency medical services pronounced her dead at the scene.
In response to her passing, her Gossip Girl showrunners, Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, released a statement: "Michelle was so funny, kind, and talented. Her portrayal of Georgina Sparks was an iconic fan favorite. She was a delight to have on set and will be deeply missed."
Former co-stars also paid tribute, with Buffy the Vampire Slayer actor James Marsters remembering her as "fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person," while Gossip Girl's Ed Westwick wrote, "So sad to hear of the passing of @MichelleTrachtenberg. Sending prayers."
From her early days as Harriet the Spy to her unforgettable roles on Buffy and Gossip Girl, Michelle Trachtenberg left an indelible mark on Hollywood. While her life was tragically cut short, her work continues to resonate with fans across generations.
Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time, with no further details available regarding memorial arrangements.
Source: E! News
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