Michelle Trachtenberg Dies at 39 from Diabetes

Michelle Trachtenberg, famed for her roles in 'Gossip Girl,' 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer,' and 'Harriet the Spy,' died at age 39 after being found unresponsive in her New York City apartment on February 26, 2025. The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed her death was due to complications from diabetes mellitus and ruled it natural. Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant, which may have contributed to her declining health, though her family objected to a full autopsy for religious reasons and no foul play was suspected. Tributes from Blake Lively, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Rosie O'Donnell highlighted her impact on television and film. Her passing has drawn attention to her significant health struggles in her final years. Trachtenberg's family has requested privacy as her legacy continues to be celebrated.