Shock and sorrow ripple through Hollywood as several stars from an iconic ’90s television series honor their late co-star, who passed away at the age of 39.
The cast of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” is remembering their late co-star, Michelle Trachtenberg, honoring her talent, humor, and presence on set. They have shared heartfelt messages on social media, reflecting on their time together and the deep bond they formed during the show.
Tom Lenk, Emma Caulfield, Alexis Denisof, Alyson Hannigan, Anthony Stewart Head, Joss Whedon, Michelle Trachtenberg, and James Marsters attend the Buffy the Vampire Slayer wrap party on April 18, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
James Marsters, who played Spike in the series, expressed his grief on Instagram over Trachtenberg’s passing. He described her as a “beautiful soul,” “fiercely intelligent” and “howlingly funny.” He added, “She died much too young, and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her.”
James Marsters, Michelle Trachtenberg, and executive producer Marti Noxon attend UPN’s TCA party at Twin Palms in Los Angeles on January 14, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
Marsters also expressed his sympathy for Trachtenberg’s family, calling them “good people” facing an unimaginable loss. He urged others to respect their privacy during this difficult time and ended his tribute with a somber farewell, “Godspeed, Michelle. You are missed.”
Alyson Hannigan, known for her role as Willow Rosenberg in the classic TV series, reflected on Trachtenberg’s presence on the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” set. Sharing her thoughts on Instagram, she wrote, “She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends.”
David Boreanaz, who portrayed Angel in the TV show, shared a brief but heartfelt message on Instagram Story, calling the news “very sad” and “horrible.”
David Boreanaz’s heartfelt tribute to Michelle Trachtenberg following her passing at 39 | Source: Instagram/imdboreanaz
Emma Caulfield, who played Anya Jenkins in the iconic series, described Trachtenberg as a”bright light” and the “little sister” of their “Buffy” family in an emotional Instagram Story. “Rest in peace, lovely Mish Mish. You were loved,” she wrote.
Emma Caulfield shares a touching message to Michelle Trachtenberg following her death at 39 | Source :Instagram/emmacaulfieldofficial
In a follow-up post, Claufield simply added, “Sleep well, Michelle.” The message included a photo of her with Trachtenberg and two other women, all elegantly dressed and smiling.
As tributes continue to pour in, new details have emerged about Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing on Wednesday, February 26. Her longtime boyfriend, talent agent Jay Cohen, was seen at her family’s home in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Cohen, visibly emotional, answered the door and told the publication that the family would “not be commenting on the tragedy.” His presence suggests that he and Trachtenberg were still together at the time of her death, as they were first linked in 2020.
Just days before her passing, on February 18, Trachtenberg shared her final Instagram post. Alongside a throwback photo in a green dress, the caption read, “I wanted to look like naughty #tinkerbell 💚 #throwback ⚡️.” The post has since been filled with messages from fans mourning her loss.
Around 8 a.m. on February 26, Trachtenberg was found unresponsive by her mother, Lana Trachtenberg, at One Columbus Place, a luxury high-rise near Central Park in New York City, police sources confirmed.
Michelle Trachtenberg and her mother, Lana, during Intuition and Shopintuition.com Host “Get With It” Red Carpet at Intuition in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
The NYPD responded to a 911 call reporting an unconscious female at the residence. In a statement to People, officials said, “Upon arrival, officers observed a 39-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive. EMS responded to the location and pronounced the victim deceased. Criminality is not suspected.”
The cause of death has not been officially confirmed, but sources also indicated that the actress had recently undergone a liver transplant. The investigation remains ongoing.
Trachtenberg, an award-winning actress with over three decades in the entertainment industry, was best known for her roles as Georgina Sparks in “Gossip Girl” and Dawn Summers in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”
However, her career began much earlier. She made her television debut at the age of nine on Nickelodeon’s “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” and later gained fame starring in the 1996 film “Harriet the Spy.”
Her transition to adult roles included notable performances in films such as “EuroTrip,” “17 Again,” and “Ice Princess.” She reprised her role as Georgina Sparks in the 2023 reboot of “Gossip Girl” on Max, which became her final credited acting role.
In the past few years, fans had expressed concern over her appearance in Instagram posts where she appeared noticeably thinner.
Some speculated about her health, prompting the actress to respond in January 2024. “I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery,” she wrote.
The actress then affirmed her positive state of health and well-being, concluding with a critical remark directed at those who made the negative comments.
Aside from her thinner appearance, Trachtenberg also made headlines for a professional controversy. In 2021, she made allegations against “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” creator Joss Whedon, claiming he had mistreated her on set and that there was a “rule” prohibiting him from being alone in a room with her. Whedon later denied the accusations.
Born in New York City on October 11, 1985, Michelle Trachtenberg grew up in a close-knit family and was often seen at public events with her mother. Her work in television and film left a lasting impact, making her a beloved figure among fans of multiple generations.
Michelle Trachtenberg and her mother, Lana, during WB Network All Star Party at Il Fornaio Restaurant in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images
Her passing marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry, where she was known for her versatility, charm, and dedication to her craft. Our thoughts go out to her family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
