Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl Actress Michelle Trachtenberg Dies Aged 39

Author: Simon Feb 28,2025

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, passed away at age 39, according to reports. Law enforcement sources indicate no suspicion of foul play.

ABC News reported that Trachtenberg was found deceased on Wednesday in her New York City apartment by her mother. The news outlet cited potential complications from a recent liver transplant as a possible contributing factor.

Authorities believe her death was from natural causes, pending an autopsy to confirm the cause and manner of death. No foul play is suspected.

Michelle Trachtenberg in November 2023. Photo by Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty Images.
Trachtenberg's career began at age nine with a role on Nickelodeon's The Adventures of Pete and Pete. Her film debut followed in 1996's Harriet the Spy. She achieved widespread recognition for her portrayal of Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2000-2003) and later starred in films like EuroTrip (2004) and Ice Princess (2005).

Her memorable role as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl (2007-2012) solidified her status as a teen icon, a role she reprised in the HBO Max sequel series.

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