All About ‘Gossip Girl’ and ‘Buffy’ Star, Michelle Trachtenberg, Who Passed Away at 39

The actress, known for her roles in ‘Gossip Girl’ and ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer,’ was found unresponsive in her New York apartment.

February 27, 2025: Hollywood is mourning the sudden loss of Michelle Trachtenberg, best known for her roles as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl and Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The 39-year-old actress was found unresponsive in her New York City apartment on Wednesday morning, as confirmed by authorities.

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According to The BBC, her mother discovered her unresponsive, and emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene. While an autopsy is pending, police have stated that no foul play is suspected. ABC News reports that she recently underwent a liver transplant, which may have led to complications.

Also Read: ‘Buffy’ and ‘Gossip Girl’ Star Michelle Trachtenberg Passes Away at 39

A Journey from Child Star to Hollywood Icon

• Trachtenberg began acting at age 9, starring in The Adventures of Pete & Pete on Nickelodeon.
• She made her film debut as Harriet in Harriet the Spy (1996), alongside Rosie O’Donnell.
• From 2000 to 2003, she played Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
• She became a fan favorite as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl (2008-2012, 2023 reboot).
• Her film credits include EuroTrip (2004), 17 Again (2009), and Ice Princess (2005).
• Her last credited role was in the Gossip Girl reboot in 2023.

Industry Reacts to the Tragic Loss

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Tributes have poured in from across Hollywood:

• Rosie O’Donnell, her Harriet the Spy co-star, called her passing “heartbreaking”, adding, “She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”
• Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass, Gossip Girl) shared a photo of her as Georgina Sparks, writing: “So sad to hear of the passing of Michelle Trachtenberg. Sending prayers.”
• David Boreanaz (Angel, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) said: “So very sad. Horrible news.”

Michelle Trachtenberg leaves behind a legacy of memorable roles and beloved characters, with fans worldwide celebrating her contributions to film and television.

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