Photo Credit: Getty Images
Michelle Trachtenberg, the actress who captivated audiences with her performances in "Gossip Girl" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," has died at age 39. According to reports from ABC News, Trachtenberg was found dead on February 26, 2025, in an apartment near Columbus Circle in New York City.
Police sources informed The New York Post that "her death is not being investigated as suspicious." The actress was reportedly discovered around 8 am on Wednesday at One Columbus Place on Central Park South. No immediate cause of death has been disclosed.
Trachtenberg began her entertainment journey in commercials before securing roles on Nickelodeon's "The Adventures of Pete & Pete" and the soap opera "All My Children." Her breakthrough came in 1996 when she starred as the titular character in "Harriet the Spy."
The actress gained significant recognition portraying Dawn Summers in the cult classic "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and later as the manipulative Georgina Sparks in "Gossip Girl." Her versatility extended to films like "EuroTrip," "17 Again," and "Ice Princess."
Her most recent credit came in 2023 when she reprised her role as Georgina Sparks for Max's "Gossip Girl" reboot. Just one week before her passing, Trachtenberg shared an Instagram post featuring a throwback photo where she expressed wanting to "look like naughty #tinkerbell."
In recent months, fans had expressed concerns regarding Trachtenberg's health due to noticeable changes in her appearance. The actress responded directly to these comments, stating, "Fun fact. This is my face. Not malnutrition no problems. Why do you have to hate? Get a calendar."
She further addressed the speculation in another Instagram post: "I've received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself haters."
Industry insiders note that Trachtenberg's career spanned nearly three decades, demonstrating remarkable longevity in an often fickle entertainment business. "She was one of those rare talents who successfully transitioned from child star to adult roles," entertainment analyst Maria Hernandez told Entertainment Weekly last year.
The news of Trachtenberg's passing has sent shockwaves through Hollywood. Her "Buffy" co-star Sarah Michelle Gellar, who is currently working on a "Buffy" sequel series, has not yet issued a public statement regarding this tragedy.
Coincidentally, this news comes as Gellar recently described the process of developing the "Buffy" sequel as "incredibly nerve-wracking," telling reporters, "You have to do it right," according to recent interviews.
Trachtenberg's legacy includes a body of work that resonated with multiple generations of viewers. From her early days as a child actress to her more complex adult roles, she demonstrated remarkable range and dedication to her craft.
