Blake Lively has shared an emotional tribute to her former Gossip Girl co-star Michelle Trachtenberg, following the actress’s tragic passing at the age of 39.
Trachtenberg was found dead at One Columbus Place in New York around 8 a.m. on February 26. Authorities have confirmed that her death is not being treated as suspicious, and a medical examiner will determine the cause.
In a statement, her representatives shared:
“It is with great sadness that we confirm Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss.”
Lively Remembers Her “Kind” and “Electric” Friend
Taking to Instagram, Lively reflected on Trachtenberg’s vibrant spirit, sharing a photo from the first day they met nearly two decades ago on the Gossip Girl set.
“This is the first day I met Michelle. She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed. Everything she did, she did 200 percent.”
The mother of four described Trachtenberg as someone who lived life fully, whether through laughter, standing up for what she believed in, or dedicating herself to her work.
“She was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved. She was big and bold and distinctly herself.”
Lively also shared a touching detail about Trachtenberg’s thoughtfulness, recalling how she always wore “yummy caramel-smelling lip gloss”—not just to shine on camera, but because she wanted to create a pleasant experience for those around her.
“She was a kind person, through and through.”
A Sudden and Heartbreaking Loss
Reflecting on the tragedy, Lively encouraged her 44 million followers to cherish their loved ones:
“Time passes. You take for granted that you get the chance to see an old friend. To paraphrase, the real tragedies in life are the ones that blindside you on an idle Tuesday.”
She ended her tribute with a heartfelt message:
“The world lost a deeply sensitive and good person in Michelle. May her work and her huge heart be remembered by those who were lucky enough to experience her fire.”
Hollywood and Fans Mourn
Lively wasn’t the only Gossip Girl alum to honor Trachtenberg. Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass, shared his condolences on his Instagram Story:
“So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers. 🤍🙏”
Trachtenberg’s passing has also deeply affected fans, who took to social media to remember the actress as a “legendary” and “talented” performer.
A Legacy That Lives On
Trachtenberg began acting at just three years old, gaining early recognition on Nickelodeon’s The Adventures of Pete & Pete (1994–1996). She later starred in Eurotrip (2004) before rising to fame as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl and Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer—a role that earned her three Saturn Award nominations and a Young Artist Award.
Her career spanned television and film, with notable roles in Ice Princess (2005), 17 Again (2009) alongside Zac Efron, and the animated series Human Kind Of, where she voiced Judy Reilly.
The LADbible Group has reached out to the NYPD and Trachtenberg’s representatives for further comment.
