Michelle Trachtenberg’s Gossip Girl and Ice Princess Co-Stars Pay Tribute to the Late Actress
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The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Michelle Trachtenberg, who passed away at the age of 39 at her home in New York City on Wednesday morning. Known for her iconic roles in Gossip Girl, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Ice Princess, Trachtenberg’s death has left fans and co-stars heartbroken. While the cause of her death remains unknown, tributes from her colleagues and friends have flooded social media, celebrating her talent and legacy.
Trachtenberg’s last onscreen appearance was as the fan-favorite villain Georgina Sparks in the Gossip Girl reboot on Max in 2022. She once told Entertainment Tonight, “Georgina is actually my favorite character that I’ve played because she’s such an evil B-I-T-C-H. That was fun.”
Rising to fame in the late ’90s and 2000s, Trachtenberg became a household name with her breakout role as Harriet M. Welsch in Harriet the Spy. She also starred as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and as Casey Carlyle, a math prodigy turned figure skater, in Disney’s Ice Princess. Her diverse career included roles in films like Inspector Gadget and 17 Again, where she worked alongside stars like Sarah Michelle Gellar, Zac Efron, and Rosie O’Donnell.
Blake Lively, who played Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, shared a heartfelt tribute on her Instagram Story.
Ed Westwick, who portrayed Chuck Bass, also honored Trachtenberg on Instagram, posting, “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers.”
Michelle Trachtenberg, the actor best known for film and television roles including “Gossip Girl” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” has died. She was 39. https://t.co/0vOxmOK3B8 pic.twitter.com/V0COycE1nB
— Variety (@Variety) February 26, 2025
Kim Cattrall, who played Trachtenberg’s skating coach in Ice Princess, expressed her grief on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “This is Heartbreaking. So talented, much too young. RIP Sweet Beauty. xo.” She also shared a tribute on Instagram, adding, “Rest in peace sweet Michelle 💔”
Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in Harriet the Spy, released a statement to Us Weekly, saying, “Heartbreaking. I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”
Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing is a profound loss for the entertainment industry, but her unforgettable performances and vibrant spirit will continue to inspire fans and colleagues alike.