Actress Michelle Trachtenberg passed away in February 2025 at the age of 39. Survived by her parents and sister, as well as her boyfriend, talent agent Jay Cohen, she had achieved fame through roles in Harriet the Spy, Gossip Girl, Ice Princess, 17 Again, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Following her death, her co-star Ed Westwick expressed his sadness, and details about her passing began to emerge.
Trachtenberg was found unconscious in her New York City apartment by her mother. The cause of death was not immediately apparent, and an official medical report was pending. Prior to her death, sources confirmed that she had undergone a liver transplant, but it was unclear whether this factored into her passing. Neighbors who had interacted with Trachtenberg described her as happy and friendly, sending condolences to her family and expressing how much they will miss her presence in their building.
The circumstances surrounding Trachtenberg’s death led to an outpouring of support and condolences from both fans and colleagues in the industry. Further details related to her passing were awaited as investigations continued. Initial reports from law enforcement confirmed the discovery of her body by New York City police officers and the subsequent response by the medical examiner. The absence of any suspicion of criminal activity in her death suggested that it was likely due to natural causes.
Trachtenberg’s unexpected passing raised questions about the reasons behind her sudden death at a relatively young age. As a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, her loss was deeply felt by many who admired her work over the years. With a successful career spanning different genres and mediums, she had left a lasting impact on audiences around the world. Tributes from friends and former co-stars highlighted the positive influence she had during her time in the spotlight.
Despite the shock of her passing, memories of Michelle Trachtenberg as a talented and personable performer remained in the hearts of those who had known her or followed her career. Her untimely death underscored the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. As the investigation into the cause of her death continued, fans and supporters honored her memory by celebrating her contributions to the entertainment industry. The legacy she left behind through her work and interactions with others would be remembered for years to come.