Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, has passed away at the age of 39.
Cause of Death & Investigation
Authorities in Manhattan responded to an emergency call on Wednesday morning and found Trachtenberg unconscious. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have stated that her death is not being treated as suspicious, though the medical examiner will determine the official cause.
Career Highlights
Trachtenberg gained fame as a child star in the 1990s and 2000s. She made her film debut in Harriet the Spy (1996) and went on to star in Buffy the Vampire Slayer as Dawn Summers. She later became known for her role as the scheming Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.
Beyond television, she also appeared in films such as EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and Killing Kennedy. Her last major role was hosting the true-crime docuseries Meet, Marry, Murder in 2021.
Tributes from Co-Stars & Friends
Co-stars and colleagues shared heartfelt messages in her memory:
- Gossip Girl co-star Blake Lively described her as passionate, loyal, and fearless.
- Buffy actor James Marsters called her “fiercely intelligent and howlingly funny.”
- How I Met Your Mother actress Alyson Hannigan shared fond memories of working with her.
- Rosie O’Donnell, who co-starred with her in Harriet the Spy, said Trachtenberg had “struggled the last few years” and wished she could have helped.
Michelle Trachtenberg’s impact on television and film remains significant, and she will be remembered for her talent and dedication to her craft.
