Thu Feb 27 20:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Beloved Actress Michelle Trachtenberg Dies at 39

**NEW YORK (AP)** — Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” died unexpectedly at the age of 39. Police found her unresponsive in her Manhattan apartment on February 26, 2025. While no foul play is suspected, her family declined an autopsy, resulting in an undetermined cause of death.

Trachtenberg began her career as a child actor, appearing in Nickelodeon’s “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” and starring in films like “Harriet the Spy” and “Inspector Gadget.” Her breakout role came as Dawn Summers in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” a performance that earned her significant recognition. She later gained further fame for her portrayal of the scheming Georgina Sparks in “Gossip Girl.”

Beyond these iconic roles, Trachtenberg’s diverse career included appearances in films such as “EuroTrip,” “17 Again,” and “Killing Kennedy” (where she showcased her fluency in Russian), and television shows like “Six Feet Under,” “Weeds,” and “Mercy.” More recently, she hosted the true-crime docuseries “Meet, Marry, Murder.”

Trachtenberg’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from fellow actors and fans alike. Tributes have poured in on social media from co-stars including Blake Lively (“Gossip Girl”), David Boreanaz (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”), and Melissa Gilbert, highlighting her talent and kind nature. Rosie O’Donnell, who worked with Trachtenberg on “Harriet the Spy,” also expressed her sorrow.

Trachtenberg’s legacy extends beyond her on-screen presence. In 2021, she publicly supported Sarah Michelle Gellar’s statement against Joss Whedon, alluding to her own experiences with inappropriate behavior on the set of “Buffy.”

The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented and multifaceted actress whose contributions will be remembered for years to come.

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