Michelle Trachtenberg, widely recognized for her performances in "Gossip Girl" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", has passed away at the age of 39.

According to a statement from the NYPD, authorities responded to an emergency call around 8:00 AM local time regarding an unresponsive woman at a Manhattan residence. Upon arrival, officers discovered Trachtenberg unconscious, and she was declared dead at the spot. Officials have stated that no sign of crime is suspected, and the Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death as the investigation continues.

Harriet the Spy (Nickelodeon Films), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (UPN), Gossip Girl (The WB)

Following the news, tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues. Her "Gossip Girl" co-star Ed Westwick expressed his sorrow on Instagram, writing, "So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers." Many admirers have also taken to social media to remember her, with one describing her passing as "completely shocking and heartbreaking," while another thanked her for the "childhood memories."

Born in New York, Trachtenberg began acting as a toddler, appearing in over 100 commercials before landing early television roles, including a part in "Law & Order" and Nickelodeon's "The Adventures of Pete & Pete" (1994–1996). She gained widespread recognition in 2000 when she portrayed Dawn Summers in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and later won over audiences as Georgina Sparks in "Gossip Girl".

Beyond television, she starred in films such as "Harriet the Spy", "Inspector Gadget", "EuroTrip", and "Ice Princess". She also appeared in music videos, including Fall Out Boy's "This Ain't a Scene", "It's an Arms Race" and Ringside "Tired of Being Sorry", which was directed by Joaquin Phoenix.

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Her most recent acting credit was in the short-lived "Gossip Girl" revival in 2021, which was later canceled in 2023. Trachtenberg had stepped away from the limelight in recent years, but her legacy as a talented actress continues to be celebrated.