Fans mourns the loss of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, whose versatile roles resonated deeply with the millennial generation and beyond. Trachtenberg passed away at the age of 39 on February 26, 2025, in her New York City apartment. Her work reminded us of how she inspired the next generation of bold, brave and fierce women inside. Check out a gallery of her iconic roles inside.

News of Trachtenberg’s death has brought sadness to the entertainment world and her dedicated fans. Her mother discovered her unresponsive, and while the exact cause of death remains under investigation, it’s known that she had undergone a liver transplant in the past year, which may have led to complications.

Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg’s acting career commenced remarkably early. At just three years old, she appeared in television commercials, setting the stage for a prolific career in both television and film. Her early work included roles in “Clarissa Explains It All” and “All My Children,” but it was her portrayal of Nona Mecklenberg in Nickelodeon’s “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” (1994–1996) that garnered her initial recognition.

In 1996, Trachtenberg’s career reached new heights with her lead role in “Harriet the Spy,” where she played the inquisitive Harriet M. Welsch. This performance endeared her to a generation of young viewers and solidified her status as a talented young actress. Her versatility was further showcased when she joined the cast of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” in 2000 as Dawn Summers, the younger sister of the titular character. This role expanded her fan base and demonstrated her ability to tackle complex characters.

Trachtenberg’s impact continued with her portrayal of Georgina Sparks in the popular series “Gossip Girl” (2007–2012). Her character’s unpredictable and scheming nature added depth to the show’s dynamic, making Georgina a memorable figure in the series. Beyond television, Trachtenberg appeared in films such as EuroTrip (2004), Ice Princess (2005), and 17 Again (2009), showcasing her range across various genres.

Despite her health struggles, she remained active in her career, with projects like hosting the crime docuseries “Meet, Marry, Murder” and providing voice work for the animated series “Human Kind Of.”

The news of her passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from colleagues and fans alike. Co-stars such as Sarah Michelle Gellar and Blake Lively have expressed their sorrow, remembering Trachtenberg’s talent and honoring her lasting impact.

Michelle’s contributions to entertainment have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. Her ability to bring diverse characters to life endeared her to many, and her legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations.

Check out our favorite roles portrayed by Michelle Trachtenberg below: