Michelle Trachtenberg was found unresponsive by her mother around 8 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, at One Columbus Place, a luxury high-rise near Central Park in New York City, police sources confirmed. She was 39.
Michelle Trachtenberg and her mother, Lana, during Intuition and Shopintuition.com Host "Get With It" Red Carpet at Intuition in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
The NYPD responded to a 911 call reporting an unconscious female at the residence. In a statement to People, officials said, "Upon arrival, officers observed a 39-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive. EMS responded to the location and pronounced the victim deceased. Criminality is not suspected."
The cause of death has not been officially confirmed, but sources also indicated that the actress had recently undergone a liver transplant. The investigation remains ongoing.
Trachtenberg, an award-winning actress with over three decades in the entertainment industry, was best known for her roles as Georgina Sparks in "Gossip Girl" and Dawn Summers in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."
However, her career began much earlier. She made her television debut at the age of nine on Nickelodeon's "The Adventures of Pete & Pete" and later gained fame starring in the 1996 film "Harriet the Spy."
Her transition to adult roles included notable performances in films such as "EuroTrip," "17 Again," and "Ice Princess." She reprised her role as Georgina Sparks in the 2023 reboot of "Gossip Girl" on Max, which became her final credited acting role.
In the past few years, fans had expressed concern over her appearance in Instagram posts where she appeared noticeably thinner.
Some speculated about her health, prompting the actress to respond in January 2024. "I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery," she wrote.
The actress then affirmed her positive state of health and well-being, concluding with a critical remark directed at those who made the negative comments.
Despite reassurances, her final posts continued to raise concerns among followers. Her last Instagram update, shared on February 18, 2025, featured a throwback photo, and in the caption, she wrote, "Wanted to look like naughty #tinkerbell."
Aside from her thinner appearance, Trachtenberg also made headlines for a professional controversy. In 2021, she made allegations against "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" creator Joss Whedon, claiming he had mistreated her on set and that there was a "rule" prohibiting him from being alone in a room with her. Whedon later denied the accusations.
Born in New York City on October 11, 1985, Michelle Trachtenberg grew up in a close-knit family and was often seen at public events with her mother, Lana Trachtenberg. Her work in television and film left a lasting impact, making her a beloved figure among fans of multiple generations.
Michelle Trachtenberg and her mother, Lana, during WB Network All Star Party at Il Fornaio Restaurant in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images
Her passing marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry, where she was known for her versatility, charm, and dedication to her craft. Our thoughts go out to her family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
