The New York City, New York, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner announced on Wednesday, April 15, 2025, that actress Michelle Trachtenberg passed away from natural causes linked to diabetes mellitus complications. This confirmation was released nearly two months after the 39-year-old was discovered unresponsive in her Manhattan apartment on February 26.
Trachtenberg was known for her roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Gossip Girl,” and the 1996 movie “Harriet the Spy.” She was found after law enforcement responded to a 911 call. Authorities reported no evidence of foul play at the location.
As reported by People magazine, which received the initial confirmation from the medical examiner’s office, the manner of death was ruled natural. Officials did not detail the specific diabetes-related complications.
People familiar with Trachtenberg indicated she had a liver transplant before her passing, although the timing and rationale for the procedure are unclear. An unidentified source informed NBC News about the transplant, pointing out possible links between diabetes and liver conditions.
Experts note that diabetes can heighten the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, potentially leading to severe liver scarring or cirrhosis. The connection is reciprocal, as both nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and Type 2 diabetes share several risk factors.
The medical examiner’s office respected the family’s religious objections to a standard autopsy. Trachtenberg’s family, adhering to Orthodox Jewish traditions, generally opposes altering the body post-mortem. Officials determined the cause of death via lab tests without a complete autopsy.
“This was the first day I met Michelle,” Blake Lively posted on Instagram in February, alongside a photo of her and Trachtenberg from their “Gossip Girl” days. “She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed. Everything she did, she did 200%.”
US Magazine reported that those close to Trachtenberg noticed health changes in the year before her death. Sources described her as “pale, gaunt, very thin,” noting she had been “really, really sick” and struggling with health issues.
Despite her health struggles, Trachtenberg had previously addressed critics who commented on her appearance on social media. She kept her medical conditions private throughout her career.
Trachtenberg started her career as a child actress, initially appearing in television commercials before gaining more significant roles. Her performance in “Harriet the Spy” marked her as a talented young actress, and her role on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” with Sarah Michelle Gellar broadened her audience.
Her role as Georgina Sparks on “Gossip Girl” demonstrated her acting range and became one of her most recognized performances. Trachtenberg also acted in films like “EuroTrip” and “Ice Princess,” showcasing her versatility across genres.
Following her death, Trachtenberg’s former co-star Sarah Michelle Gellar shared her sorrow on social media, praising the actress’s talent and loyalty. Gellar described Trachtenberg as fiercely loyal and brave, noting that she remained true to herself throughout her life.
According to ABC News, diabetes affects around 38 million Americans and is the eighth leading cause of death in the U.S. The condition can lead to various complications, including cardiovascular issues, eye disease, nerve damage, kidney disease, and skin conditions.
For transplant recipients like Trachtenberg, diabetes complications can pose significant challenges. Medical literature suggests new-onset diabetes can sometimes occur after organ transplants, potentially linked to anti-rejection medications needed for these patients.
At the time of her death, Trachtenberg remained active in the entertainment industry and had plans to attend the SXSW Festival shortly before her passing. Her sudden death surprised fans who were largely unaware of her health issues.
As news of Trachtenberg’s cause of death becomes public, her colleagues and fans continue to mourn her loss. Other “Gossip Girl” cast members, including Chace Crawford and co-stars from her various projects, have also paid tribute to the actress, remembering her contributions to film and television.
