Michelle Trachtenberg, known for Buffy and Gossip Girl, dies at 39

Michelle Trachtenberg has died at the age of 39.

The actress—who was best known for starring in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Gossip Girl" —was found dead inside her Manhattan apartment on Wednesday (26.02.25).

The New York Police Department (NYPD) has confirmed to PEOPLE that it responded to a 911 call at 1 Columbus Place in New York City.

The NYPD added:"Upon arrival, officers observed a 39-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive. EMS responded to the location and pronounced the victim deceased. Criminality is not suspected."

The actress recently underwent a liver transplant, according to sources at the New York Post newspaper, and her death is not being treated as suspicious.

In recent years, Trachtenberg's fans have expressed concern about her health on social media.

In 2024, the TV star took to social media to address comments about her gaunt appearance.

In response to a question about her health, Trachtenberg replied:"@cathy_critz explain to me how I look sick. Did you lose a calendar and not realize I'm not 14? I'm 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment. (sic)"

She later shared a selfie, insisting she was feeling "happy and healthy."

The actress captioned the image:"I've received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters. (sic)"

Trachtenberg first found fame as a child, starring in TV commercials and the Nickelodeon series The Adventures of Pete and Pete.

In 2000, she joined the cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer as Dawn Summers. Between 2008 and 2012, Trachtenberg played Georgina Sparks on the hit teen drama series Gossip Girl.

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