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Hollywood Mourns the Untimely Passing of Michelle Trachtenberg at 39
The entertainment world is reeling from the shocking news of Michelle Trachtenberg’s death at the age of 39. Tributes have poured in from former co-stars, friends, and colleagues, painting a picture of a talented, kind, and fiercely loyal individual whose life was cut far too short. The actress, known for her roles in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Harriet the Spy," and "Gossip Girl," leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a profound impact on those who knew her.
Blake Lively, who shared the screen with Trachtenberg on the hit teen drama "Gossip Girl," took to Instagram to express her grief. In a heartfelt post accompanied by a photo from their first day on set together, Lively described Trachtenberg as "fiercely loyal." She wrote, "She was big and bold and distinctly herself… She was a kind person, through and through," adding that Trachtenberg possessed an electrifying presence.
Lively reflected on the ephemeral nature of time and the tendency to take friendships for granted. "You take for granted that you get the chance to see an old friend. To paraphrase, the real tragedies in life are the ones that blindside you on an idle Tuesday." She urged her followers to cherish their loved ones, stating, "Hold those you love and have loved dear. The world lost a deeply sensitive and good person in Michelle. May her work and her huge heart be remembered by those who were lucky enough to experience her fire."
Rosie O’Donnell, who co-starred with Trachtenberg in the 1996 film "Harriet the Spy," shared a statement with Fox News Digital, calling the news "heartbreaking." "I loved her very much," O’Donnell said. "She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped." O’Donnell’s words hint at a difficult period in Trachtenberg’s life, adding a layer of sadness to her already tragic passing.
Melissa Gilbert, who appeared alongside Trachtenberg in the 1996 movie "A Holiday for Love," posted a touching message on her Instagram. Sharing a picture from the film, Gilbert wrote, "Oh Michy…and we lived so close to one another…..my heart aches for your family and all those who loved you so… @michelletrachtenberg #ripsweetgirl." The personal connection and shared proximity amplify the sense of loss and missed opportunities.
Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, the creators of "Gossip Girl," acknowledged the profound impact Trachtenberg had on their show. In a statement to NBC News, they expressed their deep sorrow: "We are deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing. Michelle was so funny, kind and talented. Her portrayal of Georgina Sparks was an iconic fan favorite and grew from a one-season villain to a beloved character who returned over the course of six seasons. She was a delight to have on set and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with her family." Their words underscore Trachtenberg’s ability to transform a character and leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Ed Westwick, another "Gossip Girl" co-star, shared a simple but heartfelt message on his Instagram story: "So sad to hear of the passing of @Michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers," followed by prayer and heart emojis.
David Boreanaz, who worked with Trachtenberg on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," echoed the sentiment of shock and sadness. He posted on his Instagram story, "So very sad …horrible news," alongside a photo of Trachtenberg, adding, "RIP and prayers to her and her family."
James Marsters, also from "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," offered a more extended and personal tribute. Sharing a photo of the two of them, he wrote that his "heart is heavy today." "We have lost a beautiful soul," Marsters continued. "Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person. She died much too young, and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her. My heart goes out to her family who are good people, and are suffering the greatest loss anyone could bear. I hope everyone can give them space to heal in this most difficult time. Godspeed Michelle. You are missed." His words highlight Trachtenberg’s multifaceted personality and the depth of her connections with others.
Kim Cattrall, who played Trachtenberg’s figure-skating coach in the 2005 film "Ice Princess," shared a photo from the film on her Instagram, writing, "Rest in peace sweet Michelle," along with a broken heart emoji. On X (formerly Twitter), she added, "This is Heartbreaking. So talented, much too young. RIP Sweet Beauty. Xo."
Kenan Thompson, of "Saturday Night Live," shared a nostalgic video on his Instagram from a 1990s Nickelodeon event where Trachtenberg was commentating while Thompson competed in "mega mini golf." He wrote, "Our first Nick movie star has departed us!! She was my friend and now she rests!! Check on your people!!!"
Mara Wilson, the child star of "Mrs. Doubtfire," remembered Trachtenberg as her "childhood friend," adding that her "heart is breaking." "Your memory will be a blessing, Michelle," she wrote, alongside a photo of Trachtenberg.
Melissa Joan Hart shared a clip from Trachtenberg’s guest appearance on "Clarissa Explains it All," where she played a mischievous little girl. "I’m heartbroken to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg!!" Hart wrote. "So young, so talented and so sweet! Here is a fun scene from when she was on #ClarissaExplainsItAll. I think this was about 1992 and the episode was an idea I had about babysitting a total nightmare. But Michelle was nothing like her character and even this young, we got along wonderfully. #gonetoosoon #RIP #GodBlesstheFunnyPeople."
- Smith-Cameron, Trachtenberg’s on-screen mother in "Harriet the Spy," told People magazine that Trachtenberg was "so excited" for her "first lead film role." "Her natural ebullient nature was ratcheted up into giddiness as she tried to learn how to handle all that came with that," Smith-Cameron said. "She was a very charming little girl. Years later we found each other on social media and connected briefly. She was always very warm toward me. I feel very shocked and unsettled to hear of her passing."
"Glee" star Chris Colfer wrote on his Instagram, "Michelle was the absolute sweetest and one of the most supportive people I knew. I’m so lucky I got to be her friend."
Trachtenberg was found dead in a New York City apartment Wednesday morning. Authorities responded to a 911 call around 8 a.m. and found the actress unconscious and unresponsive. The New York Police Department has stated that her death is not being investigated as suspicious, and the cause of death will be determined by a medical examiner.
According to police sources who spoke to ABC7, Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant and may have been experiencing complications.
Trachtenberg’s representative, Gary Mantoosh, confirmed the actress’s death, stating, "The family requests privacy for their loss. There are no further details at this time."
