Michelle Trachtenberg, best known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, has passed away at the age of 39. She was found unresponsive in her New York City apartment near Columbus Circle on Wednesday at approximately 8 a.m. local time by her mother.
Possible Health Complications
Sources indicate that Trachtenberg recently underwent a liver transplant and may have been experiencing complications. Authorities believe she died of natural causes, and no foul play is suspected. The medical examiner’s office will conduct an autopsy to determine the exact cause and manner of death.
A Career That Began in Childhood
Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg started her acting career as a child star. She gained early recognition through her roles in Nickelodeon’s The Adventures of Pete & Pete and the 1996 film Harriet the Spy.
Her breakthrough came when she was cast as Dawn Summers, the younger sister of Buffy, in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2000–2003). This role earned her a Teen Choice Award nomination for Choice TV Sidekick in 2001.
A Versatile Acting Portfolio
Beyond Buffy, Trachtenberg gained further fame as Georgina Sparks on Gossip Girl (2008–2012). Her portrayal of the cunning and manipulative Georgina earned her a Teen Choice Award nomination for Choice TV Villain in 2012.
Her film credits include:
- EuroTrip (2004)
- Ice Princess (2005)
- 17 Again (2009)
- The Scribbler (2014)
In addition, she made a cameo appearance in Fall Out Boy’s 2007 music video for This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race.
A Fond Farewell from Fans and Co-Stars
Just last month, Trachtenberg reminisced about her Buffy days, sharing a throwback photo with Sarah Michelle Gellar. “Slay all day! Always loved this twinning photo of us! #buffy #dawn #sister #womancrushwednesday,” she captioned the post.
Her most recent projects included a minor arc in HBO’s Gossip Girl reboot in 2022.
Friends, co-stars, and fans have shared their condolences and memories, honoring her contributions to television and film.
