Michelle Trachtenberg, 39, dies after health concerns

Michelle Trachtenberg, the former child star known for her roles in 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' and 'Gossip Girl,' passed away at the age of 39 in her New York City apartment, with reports indicating she had recently undergone a liver transplant. In the months leading up to her death, Trachtenberg faced social media criticism regarding her appearance, which prompted her to defend herself against comments about her weight and health, asserting she was healthy and had not undergone plastic surgery. Despite her attempts to quell concerns from followers about her thinning hair and jaundiced eyes, the actress was found unresponsive on February 26, 2024. Authorities have stated that her death is not being investigated as suspicious, and while the cause remains unclear, complications from her liver transplant have been suggested. Tributes from co-stars and fans flooded social media following the news of her passing, highlighting the impact she had on many who grew up watching her. The entertainment community is mourning the loss of a talented actress who began her career in childhood and continued to resonate with audiences into adulthood.