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Actress Michelle Trachtenberg Passes Away at 39; Tributes Pour In
Actress Michelle Trachtebberg, who was best known for her roles on "Gossip Girl" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," died at the age of 39.
In the early hours of the morning, police in New York City responded to a 911 call at a posh apartment building in Manhattan's Hell's Kitchen, according to media sources. Officers discovered Trachtenberg unconscious and not responding. She was declared dead at the site by emergency medical personnel.
Police Deny Foulplay
Officers have indicated that foul play is not suspected. The New York Medical Examiner’s Office will perform an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
As per sources told ABC News, the actress had a liver transplant and may have been experiencing complications lately. She is believed to have died of natural causes.
Her family representatives, in a statement to the BBC, request privacy for their loss.
Journey from Nickelodeon to Hollywood Stardom
Trachtenberg debuted as a film actor in 1996 with ‘Harriet the Spy’ and later acted in various Nickelodeon productions. She achieved extensive popularity in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ as Dawn Summers and in ‘Gossip Girl’ as Georgina Sparks.
During her career, she has been a part of some of the finest movies, such as 'EuroTrip', 'Ice Princess', and '17 Again'.
Her acting career began with commercials, after which she appeared in 'The Adventure of Pete & Pete' and 'All My Children'. She last appeared on screen during the 2023 'Gossip Girl' reboot on HBO Max.
Condolences Flood in from Entertainment Community
In the wake of Michelle Trachtenberg's death, a touching tribute flooded in from throughout the entertainment industry.
Comedian Rosie O'Donnell, who starred with her in 'Harriet the Spy', termed the death "heartbreaking." "I loved her very much.".
She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped,” O’Donnell said.
Actor Ed Westwick, who plays Chuck Bass in Gossip Girl, paid tribute to Trachtenberg by posting a picture of her character, Georgina Sparks, on Instagram. "So sad to hear of the passing of Michelle Trachtenberg. Sending prayers," he wrote.
Fans and the entertainment fraternity are still in disbelief over Trachtenberg's unexpected death.