Details of Her Passing

Michelle Trachtenberg was discovered by her mother around 8 a.m. at One Columbus Place, a luxury apartment complex in Manhattan’s Central Park South neighborhood. According to sources, Trachtenberg had undergone a liver transplant within the last year, but her body may have rejected the organ, leading to her untimely death. The NYPD confirmed that she was found “unconscious and unresponsive” and was pronounced dead by EMS workers. Her death is not considered suspicious, and the city medical examiner will determine the official cause.

In a statement, her representative, Gary Mantoosh, said, “It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss.”

Health Struggles and Fan Concerns

In recent months, fans had expressed concern over Trachtenberg’s health after she posted a series of photos on Instagram where she appeared gaunt and frail. Some speculated about her weight loss, while others questioned if she was struggling with substance abuse. Last January, Trachtenberg addressed these concerns, assuring fans that she was “happy and healthy” and had never undergone plastic surgery.

However, eagle-eyed fans noticed a slight jaundice tint in her eyes in a selfie she posted, which can be a symptom of liver problems. This raised further concerns about her health, especially given her recent liver transplant.

A Storied Career

Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Michelle Trachtenberg began her acting career at the age of 9 with a role on the Nickelodeon series “The Adventures of Pete and Pete.” She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Harriet M. Welsch in the 1996 film “Harriet the Spy,” which became a cult classic.

As she transitioned into adulthood, Trachtenberg took on more mature roles, including Dawn Summers, the younger sister of Sarah Michelle Gellar’s character in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” She also played the manipulative and cunning Georgina Sparks in the hit series “Gossip Girl,” which earned her a dedicated fanbase.

In 2021, Trachtenberg made headlines when she accused “Buffy” creator Joss Whedon of being physically abusive on set. She claimed there was a “rule” prohibiting Whedon from being alone with her during filming. Whedon denied these allegations in an interview with New York Magazine.

Tributes from Co-Stars and Friends

Following the news of her death, Trachtenberg’s former co-stars and friends took to social media to pay tribute to the late actress. Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in “Harriet the Spy,” expressed her heartbreak, saying, “Heartbreaking. I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”

Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass in “Gossip Girl,” shared a photo of Trachtenberg as Georgina Sparks, writing, “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers.”

Kim Cattrall, who co-starred with Trachtenberg in the 2005 Disney film “Ice Princess,” posted a sweet photo of the two, captioning it, “Rest in peace sweet Michelle,” accompanied by a broken heart emoji.

David Boreanaz, her “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” co-star, wrote on his Instagram story, “So very sad …horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Michelle Trachtenberg is survived by her longtime boyfriend, Jay Cohen, a talent agent and producer. The couple had been together since 2020, according to People. Cohen, who has two adult daughters, Rachel and Lili, is the head of film finance and distribution at Gersh, one of the world’s largest talent agencies.

Trachtenberg’s legacy as a versatile and talented actress will live on through her memorable roles and the impact she had on her fans and colleagues. Her passing is a tragic loss for the entertainment industry, and she will be deeply missed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What was Michelle Trachtenberg’s cause of death?

While the exact cause of death is yet to be determined, sources suggest her body may have rejected a liver transplant she underwent within the last year.

2. What were Michelle Trachtenberg’s most famous roles?

She was best known for her roles as Dawn Summers in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” Georgina Sparks in “Gossip Girl,” and Harriet M. Welsch in “Harriet the Spy.”

3. Did Michelle Trachtenberg have health issues before her death?

Yes, she had undergone a liver transplant recently, and fans had expressed concern over her health due to her gaunt appearance in recent photos.

4. What did Michelle Trachtenberg say about her health in January?

She assured fans she was “happy and healthy” and denied rumors of plastic surgery or substance abuse.

5. Who is Michelle Trachtenberg survived by?

She is survived by her longtime boyfriend, Jay Cohen, and her family.

6. What did her co-stars say about her passing?

Co-stars like Rosie O’Donnell, Ed Westwick, Kim Cattrall, and David Boreanaz paid heartfelt tributes to her on social media.

7. What allegations did Michelle Trachtenberg make against Joss Whedon?

In 2021, she accused Whedon of being physically abusive on the set of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and claimed there was a rule preventing him from being alone with her.

8. What was Michelle Trachtenberg’s last Instagram post?

Her last post was a glamorous photo captioned, “39 and I’m feeling fiiiiiine,” shared on her birthday, October 11.

Conclusion

Michelle Trachtenberg’s untimely death at the age of 39 has left a void in the hearts of her fans and the entertainment industry. From her early days as a child star to her iconic roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” Trachtenberg’s talent and charisma made her a beloved figure. While her health struggles in recent years were a cause for concern, her legacy as a versatile and impactful actress will endure. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Michelle.