The Buffy the Vampire Slayer cast is grieving the loss of Michelle Trachtenberg, their beloved “little sister.”
The actress, best known for her role as Dawn Summers in the hit supernatural series, was tragically found dead at the age of 39. Emergency services discovered her at One Columbus Place, New York, around 8 a.m. on Wednesday (February 26), according to the NYPD. Authorities have stated that her death is not being treated as suspicious, and an autopsy will determine the cause.
In a statement, Trachtenberg’s representatives confirmed the heartbreaking news:
“It is with great sadness that we confirm Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy during this difficult time.”
Buffy Co-Stars Pay Tribute
Tributes have poured in from former co-stars and friends. Emma Caulfield, who played Anya Jenkins, expressed her sorrow on Instagram, writing:
“I’m so sorry your bright light was extinguished too soon. Our Buffy family lost a little sister today. Rest in peace, lovely Mish Mish. You were loved.”
Alyson Hannigan, known for her role as Willow Rosenberg, shared nostalgic photos of Trachtenberg from their time on set:
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing. She brought such warmth and energy to the Buffy set. My thoughts are with her family and friends.”
James Marsters, who played the fan-favorite vampire Spike, posted a selfie with Trachtenberg, calling her a “beautiful soul”:
“My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and immensely talented. She left us far too soon, and my heart goes out to her family, who are experiencing an unimaginable loss. I hope they are given the space to heal. Godspeed, Michelle. You are missed.”
Hollywood Remembers
Beyond Buffy, many of Trachtenberg’s former co-stars have also shared their grief.
- Gossip Girl actress Blake Lively called her “kind” and “electric,” adding, “She laughed the fullest.”
- Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass in Gossip Girl, sent his prayers.
- Sex and the City star Kim Cattrall, who worked with Trachtenberg on Ice Princess, shared a heartfelt message: “Rest in peace, sweet Michelle.”
- Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside her in Harriet the Spy, described her passing as “heartbreaking”:
“I loved her very much. She struggled over the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”
A Lasting Legacy
Trachtenberg’s career began at just three years old, rising to fame with roles in The Adventures of Pete & Pete (1994–1996) and the 2004 comedy Eurotrip. She gained international recognition as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl and for her acclaimed portrayal of Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer—a role that earned her three Saturn Award nominations and a Young Artist Award.
Her versatility extended beyond TV, with notable performances in Ice Princess (2005) and 17 Again (2009) alongside Zac Efron. She also lent her voice to the animated series Human Kind Of.
Trachtenberg’s passing coincides with recent buzz from Buffy star Sarah Michelle Gellar, 47, hinting at a revival of the iconic series alongside a team of “four unbelievably talented women.”
The LADbible Group has reached out to the NYPD and Trachtenberg’s representatives for further comment.
