Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, Known For Buffy the Vampire Slayer & Gossip Girl Roles, Dies at 39

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, Known For Buffy the Vampire Slayer & Gossip Girl Roles, Dies at 39

Michelle Trachtenberg, an actress known for her roles in both television and film, passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 39.

Trachtenberg was found dead Wednesday in her New York City apartment near Columbus Circle just after 8 a.m. local time by her mother, police sources told ABC News.

Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg began her acting career at a young age, making her debut in commercials before moving on to television and film roles. Her early work included a notable performance as Harriet Welsch in the 1996 film Harriet the Spy. This role marked the beginning of a successful career, which saw her appear in a wide range of projects across various genres.

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Trachtenberg is perhaps best known for her portrayal of Dawn Summers on the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2000–2003). Her role on the series was integral to its narrative and contributed to the show’s critical and commercial success. In addition to her television work, Michelle appeared in numerous films, including EuroTrip (2004), Ice Princess (2005), and The Watcher (2000), showcasing her ability to take on diverse roles.

Throughout her career, she appeared in guest roles on various television shows, including Gossip Girl, The Adventures of Pete & Pete, and Six Feet Under. She also participated in numerous voice acting projects, lending her voice to several animated series.

In her later years, Trachtenberg remained involved in the entertainment industry, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. She was known for her work in charitable causes, particularly those related to children’s welfare and education.

This obituary was written by GoLocal in conjunction with ChatGPT