Blake Lively, known for her role in Gossip Girl, is among many who are paying tribute to her co-star, Michelle Trachtenberg, who sadly passed away at the age of 39. The news of Trachtenberg’s death was confirmed this morning after she was found unresponsive at her home in New York City.
In her heartfelt remembrance, Lively shared a thoughtful message on her Instagram Story about Trachtenberg, who played the character Georgina Sparks while Lively portrayed Serena van der Woodsen on the popular teen drama that aired in the late 2000s.
Lively shared a photo of them together from Gossip Girl and wrote about the first time she met Michelle. She described her as someone who brought a unique energy into every space, noting, “She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed.” Lively reminisced about Trachtenberg’s vibrant personality, pointing out that she approached everything with passion. Whether it was laughing wholeheartedly at a joke or standing up to authority when something felt wrong, Trachtenberg was dedicated to her work and took pride in being part of the acting community, despite its challenges.
The tribute reflected a deep sense of loss, as Lively expressed how easy it is to take for granted the moments we have with friends. She emphasized that life’s tragedies often come as a surprise, catching us off guard when we least expect it.
Michelle Trachtenberg was a significant presence in Gossip Girl, appearing in 28 episodes as a notable antagonist. Other cast members have also shown their condolences. Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass, and Chace Crawford, known for his role as Nate Archibald, have both shared their sympathies for the loss of their colleague and friend.
Beyond Gossip Girl, Trachtenberg made remarkable contributions to other projects. Kim Cattrall, who worked alongside her in Ice Princess, and various cast members from Buffy the Vampire Slayer like James Marsters and David Boreanaz, have all expressed their heartache at her passing. In Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Trachtenberg played Dawn Summers, Buffy’s younger sister.
The news of Trachtenberg’s unexpected passing has stunned many in the entertainment industry, leaving a significant gap in the lives of her friends and fans. As tributes continue to pour in from those who knew and loved her, it is clear that her spirit and the joy she brought to others will be remembered fondly.