Michelle Trachtenberg has died at the age of 39.
The actress is perhaps best known for her breakout role in Harriet the Spy and memorable performances in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl.
Police sources confirmed the news to The New York Post on Wednesday (February 26)
Cause of Death Unknown, But No Foul Play Suspected
Authorities have stated that Trachtenberg’s death is not currently being investigated as suspicious. However, her official cause of death has not yet been determined.
Found by Her Mother in Manhattan Apartment
According to The Post, Trachtenberg was discovered by her mother around 8:00AM at One Columbus Place, a luxury high-rise near Central Park in Manhattan, sources said.
NYPD confirmed that officers found her “unconscious and unresponsive” before EMS pronounced her dead at the scene. The New York City medical examiner is now set to determine her cause of death.
The actress had reportedly undergone a liver transplant in recent months, though it is unclear whether this played a role in her death.
Concerns About Health Sparked Last Year
Last year, fans had expressed concern over Trachtenberg’s appearance after she posted photos showing noticeable changes. Some pointed out that her hair appeared thinner and her eyes had a yellowish tint.
In response to the speculation, the actress pushed back against critics. “Explain to me how I look sick,” she wrote at the time, addressing those who commented on her appearance.
She also reminded followers of her age, saying: “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14? I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”
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Later, she addressed the comments in a separate post, denying any health issues. “I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters,” she wrote.
A Life in the Spotlight
Born in New York City, Trachtenberg began her acting career at just three years old. She first gained widespread recognition for her role in Nickelodeon’s The Adventures of Pete & Pete from 1991 to 1996. However, it was her lead role in Harriet the Spy (1996) that cemented her status as a child star.
She later became a household name with roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, where she played Dawn Summers, and Gossip Girl, portraying the scheming Georgina Sparks.
Her film credits included teen favorites such as EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and 17 Again.
Her Final Social Media Posts
Trachtenberg’s last Instagram post, shared just a week before her passing, was a throwback photo of herself, captioned, “I wanted to look like naughty,” in reference to her green dress.
On February 12, she posted a more recent selfie with the caption, “Eye of the Tiger.”
In 2021, Trachtenberg made headlines after alleging that Buffy creator Joss Whedon had been physically abusive on set, claiming a rule was put in place to prevent him from being alone in a room with her. Whedon later denied the allegations, per The Hollywood Reporter.
While the entertainment world mourns her loss, details surrounding her passing remain scarce. Investigations into her cause of death are ongoing.
Our thoughts go out to Trachtenberg’s family, friends, and fans at this time.
