Gossip Girl Star Michelle Trachtenberg Dies At 39

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At age 39, beloved TV star Michelle Trachteberg, known for her incredible roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, was found dead at her New York City home on Feb. 26. This has been a huge loss for the entertainment industry, and fans all over the world are mourning her loss.

Tributes came pouring in the second the news came out, and while the details of her death have not yet been made public, Michelle’s death was unarguably unexpected and premature. Her legacy will live on through her unforgettable roles.

Michelle Trachtenberg Was Found Dead At Her Home

Via Instagram/@michelletrachtenberg

According to the NYPD, the police responded to a call in the morning, where “officers observed a 39-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive.” While the official cause of Michele Trachtenberg’s death hasn’t been revealed yet, the police assured that no foul play is suspected.

Her representative announced her death in a somber and short statement, asking for fans to respect the actress’ family’s privacy.

“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss. There are no further details at this time.”

20th Century Fox shared a statement as well, lamenting the untimely loss.

“Michelle touched a generation of television fans throughout her career, including in her unforgettable role as the independent and strong-willed Dawn Summers in Buffy,” reads the statement from the production company.

“She brought depth, heart, and authenticity to every performance and will be remembered for her remarkable talent. Our sincere condolences go out to her family and friends — she will be deeply missed.”

Michelle’s Co-Stars Shared Loving Tributes

Michelle Trachtenberg via @michelletrachtenberg — Via Instagram/@michelletrachtenberg

After the tragic news came out, Michelle’s castmates expressed their grief through loving and emotional tributes.

Sarah Michelle Gellar posted a photo of the two of them behind the scenes on the set of Buffy, paraphrasing an iconic line from the show where they played sisters.

“Michelle, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will always love you. The hardest thing in this world, is to live in it. I will be brave. I will live… for you.”

Blake Lively, who worked alongside Michelle on Gossip Girl, wrote a lengthy and devastating Instagram story, praising Michelle and sharing memories with her.

“She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed. Everything she did, she did 200%,” Blake wrote.

“She laughed the fullest at someone’s joke, she faced authority head on when she felt something was wrong, she cared deeply about her work, she was proud to be a part of this community and industry as painful as it could be sometimes, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved, she was big and bold and distinctly herself.”

Taylor Momsen also shared a heartbreaking statement, calling Michelle her “true friend.”

“I will miss you everyday my love.”

“I think we truly understood each other and I am so grateful to have had a friend like you in my life for so long. You were a true friend to me which is a rarity in this world and I can’t believe I won’t hear your voice again.”

Our thoughts are with Michelle Trachtenberg’s family at this difficult time.