Hollywood Mourns Michelle Trachtenberg: Co-Stars and Friends Pay Tribute

The entertainment industry is grieving the loss of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 39.

Best known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gossip Girl, and Disney’s Ice Princess, Trachtenberg is believed to have died of natural causes, according to police sources. Reports indicate that she had recently undergone a liver transplant and may have suffered complications. Her mother discovered her in her New York City apartment near Columbus Circle. Authorities have ruled out foul play.

A Wave of Tributes from Hollywood

Trachtenberg’s passing has sparked an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from her former co-stars and industry colleagues.

James Marsters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

James Marsters, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared a touching message on Instagram, calling her a “beautiful soul.”

“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,” Marsters wrote. He also expressed condolences to her family, asking for privacy during this difficult time.

Blake Lively (Gossip Girl)

Blake Lively, who played Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, posted an emotional tribute on Instagram, describing Trachtenberg as “electric.”

“Everything she did, she did 200%,” Lively wrote. “She was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved. She was big and bold and distinctly herself. The world lost a deeply sensitive and good person in Michelle.”

Lively also recalled Trachtenberg’s signature caramel-scented lip gloss, saying she wanted to create warmth and joy for those around her.

Rosie O’Donnell (Harriet the Spy)

Rosie O’Donnell, who co-starred with Trachtenberg in Harriet the Spy, called the news “heartbreaking.”

“I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped,” O’Donnell wrote in a statement.

Chace Crawford (Gossip Girl)

Chace Crawford, known for playing Nate Archibald in Gossip Girl, honored Trachtenberg’s “magnetic” personality.

“I remember her coming on set for the first time and just absolutely owning it. She was a force of nature and just so so unapologetically funny,” Crawford shared. “Remembering those years with a big smile. Just a terrible loss. Love you ❤️”

Ed Westwick (Gossip Girl)

Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass in Gossip Girl, was among the first to react, writing on Instagram:

“So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers 🙏🏻🤍”

Melissa Rivers (TV Personality & Friend)

Melissa Rivers expressed her sadness on Instagram, writing:

“I’m deeply saddened by the sudden passing of my friend Michelle. She made me laugh every day with the silly posts we would send each other. Seeing her name pop up always brought me a smile—something that has been rare for me lately.”

Jane Espenson (Buffy the Vampire Slayer Writer & Producer)

Jane Espenson reflected on her time working with Trachtenberg, describing her as “an always-bouncing, goofy kid, a ray of sunshine.”

David Boreanaz (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

David Boreanaz, another Buffy co-star, wrote on Instagram:

“So very sad …horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family.”

Emma Caulfield (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

Emma Caulfield, who also starred in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared an old photo of the two of them and called Trachtenberg “a little sister.”

“I’m so sorry your bright light died so young. Our Buffy family lost a little sister today… Rest in peace, lovely Mish Mish. You were loved.”

Kim Cattrall (Ice Princess)

Kim Cattrall, who co-starred with Trachtenberg in Ice Princess, posted a throwback photo from the film and wrote:

“Rest in peace, sweet Michelle 💔.”

Melissa Joan Hart (Clarissa Explains It All)

Melissa Joan Hart shared a nostalgic video from a 1992 episode of Clarissa Explains It All, where a young Trachtenberg guest-starred.

“I’m heartbroken to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg!! So young, so talented, and so sweet!” Hart wrote. “Even this young, we got along wonderfully.”

Melissa Gilbert (Little House on the Prairie)

Melissa Gilbert also paid tribute, writing:

“Oh Michy… and we lived so close to one another….. my heart aches for your family and all those who loved you…”

A Lasting Legacy

Michelle Trachtenberg’s career spanned decades, leaving an unforgettable mark on television and film. From her breakout role in Harriet the Spy to her iconic performances in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, she was a beloved figure in Hollywood.

Her passing is a significant loss to the entertainment industry, but her legacy of talent, warmth, and unforgettable characters will endure.

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Summary:
Hollywood mourns the passing of Michelle Trachtenberg, who died at 39. The actress, known for Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gossip Girl, and Harriet the Spy, is believed to have died of natural causes. Tributes have poured in from co-stars and friends, remembering her as a fiercely talented, kind, and unforgettable presence.