- People close to Michelle Trachtenberg detail all the medical problems she faced before she died
- Blake Lively says goodbye to her 'Gossip Girl' co-star Michelle Trachtenberg with an emotional message
Nearly two months after Michelle Trachtenberg was found unresponsive in her New York City apartment, the Office of Chief Medical Examiner has officially determined that her death was caused by complications from diabetes mellitus. The ruling, made following a review of toxicology testing results, states that her ing was natural.
Trachtenberg, widely known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, died on February 26 at the age of 39. At the time, her family objected to an autopsy, leading to an initial undetermined cause of death ruling. However, further testing revealed that her condition was linked to diabetes-related complications, offering clarity on the circumstances surrounding her ing.
Reports indicate that Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant, raising concerns about potential medical complications. Close friends described her as pale, gaunt, and visibly struggling with health issues in the months leading up to her death. Despite these challenges, she remained outspoken on social media, pushing back against speculation about her well-being.
Everyone has sent a heartfelt message
In the wake of her ing, Hollywood stars have paid tribute to Trachtenberg's legacy. Blake Lively, her Gossip Girl co-star, described her as "electricity", recalling how her presence changed the vibration of a room. Sarah Michelle Gellar, who worked alongside her on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared an emotional tribute, quoting one of the series' most iconic lines: "The hardest thing in this world is to live in it. I will be brave. I will live... for you."
Rosie O'Donnell, who starred with Trachtenberg in Harriet the Spy, also mourned her ing, saying, "I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped." The heartfelt messages from her peers highlight the deep iration and affection she earned throughout her career.
Trachtenberg's contributions to television and film have left an enduring impact. From her early work on Nickelodeon's The Adventures of Pete & Pete to her unforgettable roles on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, she was a beloved presence in Hollywood. Though her life was tragically cut short, her talent and legacy will continue to be ed by fans and colleagues alike.