Penn Badgley recently shared his favorite memory of his former Gossip Girl costar, Michelle Trachtenberg, who passed away in February at the age of 39. He described her as incredibly quick to laugh, joyous, and with a pure heart. Trachtenberg’s death was confirmed to have been a result of complications from diabetes mellitus, which affects how the body uses blood sugar. This news came after it was revealed that Trachtenberg’s health had been deteriorating for some time, and that she had undergone a liver transplant in the months leading up to her death.
Trachtenberg’s family was aware of her health issues and was not surprised by the cause of her death. Diabetes mellitus affects the body’s use of glucose, which is the brain’s main source of fuel and key for energy in the body. Despite not having seen Trachtenberg in over a decade, Badgley expressed his sadness at her passing, stating that it felt surreal to him. Trachtenberg’s former costars, including Blake Lively, also paid tribute to her, with Lively describing her as electricity and someone who brought a unique energy to every room she entered.
Trachtenberg portrayed the character Georgina Sparks on Gossip Girl from 2008 to 2012, while Badgley played the role of Dan Humphrey. Her costars remember her as someone who lived life to the fullest, faced authority head on, cared deeply about her work, and was fiercely loyal to her friends. Badgley expressed his sorrow at not having kept in touch with Trachtenberg over the years, but fondly remembered her laughter and joyful personality. The news of her passing came as a shock to many in the entertainment industry, who remembered her as a vibrant presence on and off screen.
The cause of Trachtenberg’s death was confirmed by the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner in April as natural, due to complications from diabetes mellitus. Her health issues had been known to her family, and it was reported that her health had been declining before her passing. Despite not knowing her well in recent years, Badgley was deeply affected by her death and remembered her fondly for her infectious laughter and pure heart. The loss of Trachtenberg has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, as she is remembered for her boldness, loyalty, and vibrant personality that left a lasting impact on all who crossed her path.
