Michelle Trachtenberg, the talented actress renowned for her roles in “Harriet the Spy,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” and “Gossip Girl,” passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 39. She was found deceased in her New York City apartment by her mother. The cause of death is believed to be natural, with no foul play suspected. Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant and was possibly facing complications, as evidenced by recent social media posts showing her in a frail state.
Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg began her acting career at the tender age of three, appearing in television commercials. She gained prominence with her role as Harriet in the 1996 film “Harriet the Spy,” where she starred alongside Rosie O’Donnell. Reflecting on their time together, Trachtenberg once expressed gratitude for O’Donnell’s support, stating that she “protected me so much” on set.
Her career continued to flourish as she portrayed Dawn Summers in the critically acclaimed series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” from 2000 to 2003. Later, she captivated audiences with her role as Georgina Sparks in the popular series “Gossip Girl.” Despite her on-screen success, Trachtenberg faced personal challenges, including health issues that became a concern among her fans. In early 2024, she addressed public concerns over her health, responding to fan speculations sparked by her appearance in recent selfies.
The news of her passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from her former co-stars. Ed Westwick, who worked with her on “Gossip Girl,” expressed his sadness on social media. Rosie O’Donnell lamented Trachtenberg’s struggles in recent years, and Melissa Joan Hart shared cherished memories from their time together on various projects. Melissa Gilbert also mourned her loss, recalling their collaboration on “A Holiday for Love.”
Michelle Trachtenberg’s contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. Her talent, dedication, and the memorable characters she brought to life will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.