Michelle Trachtenberg, the actor known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Harriet the Spy, has passed away at the age of 39. Her death was confirmed by police but the cause has not been revealed yet. Authorities stated that the New York Medical Examiner is investigating, and no foul play is suspected.
Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant, according to reports.
Her mother reportedly found her in a New York apartment. Trachtenberg began her career at the age of three in commercials, later appearing on The Adventures of Pete & Pete and All My Children. She made her first lead film role in Harriet the Spy, which she remembered fondly, recalling her gratitude for the experience.
Her co-stars from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, including James Marsters and David Boreanaz, expressed their sorrow at her untimely death, remembering her as a talented and intelligent soul. Her career continued with roles in films like EuroTrip and Mysterious Skin, the latter of which she considered one of her most exhilarating acting experiences.
She also starred in Ice Princess (2005) and appeared in Six Feet Under and other notable shows like House. Trachtenberg is perhaps most remembered for her role as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl, a character she described as her favorite for its complex, villainous nature. Tributes from Gossip Girl co-stars, including Blake Lively and Ed Westwick, praised her for her vibrant energy and strong presence.
Trachtenberg’s final film role was in the 2014 sci-fi thriller The Scribbler, with an upcoming drama titled Spyral still to be released.
Her ex-boyfriend, actor Shawn Ashmore, also expressed his sadness over her passing, remembering their time together fondly.
