Following the heartbreaking news of Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing at the age of 39, her ex-boyfriend, X-Men star Shawn Ashmore, has shared an emotional tribute, remembering the years they spent together.

As previously reported, the Harriet the Spy and Buffy the Vampire Slayer actress was found dead by her mother early Wednesday morning at One Columbus Place, a luxury high-rise near Central Park in Manhattan, police sources confirmed to The New York Post.

Authorities arrived to find her “unconscious and unresponsive” before EMS pronounced her dead at the scene.

While her cause of death remains unknown, police have stated that it is not being treated as suspicious. The New York City medical examiner is set to determine an official ruling.

Sources have since revealed to The Post that Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant, though it is unclear whether it played a role in her passing.

Shawn Ashmore's Emotional Tribute

Following Trachtenberg's death, tributes have poured in from fans and co-stars alike. One of the most emotional tributes comes from the actress' ex-boyfriend Shawn Ashmore.

They met while filming the short-lived television series The Mountain, and made many public appearances together.

Ashmore - who dated Trachtenberg from 2004 to 2006 - took to social media to express his grief.

“Incredibly sad to hear about Michelle’s passing,” he wrote. “She was an incredible person, and I will always remember the years we spent together fondly. She was loving, quirky, and would never pass up a Law & Order: SVU marathon.”

He also shared condolences to her family, adding: “My condolences to her mother Lana and sister Irene! This is an incredible loss!”

Speaking with Blackfilm about how she "met an X-Man", Trachtenberg joked at the time: "Well, I put out an ad in the classifieds. 'Wanted, superhero. I'm a damsel in distress.'"

"No, we just met, which is funny, knowing Shawn, he hates anything publicity," she added. "He's so not into that world. We met at an Oscar party and he was just like Mr. Grumpy unhappy to be out in public and I totally approached him. I was the forward one, I take full credit and actually, we've been together a year."

Ashmore joined a wave of celebrities paying tribute to Trachtenberg.

Harriet the Spy co-star Rosie O’Donnell called the news “heartbreaking,” adding: "I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped."

While Gossip Girl star Ed Westwick wrote: “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg, sending prayers.”

Fellow Buffy alum David Boreanaz added, “So very sad … horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family.”

Her Final Instagram Posts and Fan Tributes

Just a week before her death, on February 18, Trachtenberg posted a throwback photo of herself wearing a green dress, captioning it, “I wanted to look like naughty, #Tinkerbell.” Since the news of her passing broke, the post has been flooded with heartfelt tributes from fans.

“Rest in peace. Thank you for raising us all with your endless iconic roles,” one follower wrote. Another added, “You crafted so many characters that many of us were connected to. Thank you for sharing your life and talent with us. You’ll be missed.”

One fan shared a poignant memory, recalling meeting her at an airport 18 years ago. “You sat and talked with me for about 45 minutes when you didn’t have to while we were waiting on our flight to Chicago. I kept that picture all the way up until last year when my computer crashed and it was lost. Thanks for the conversation and the memory, Michelle.”

Prior to this final post, Trachtenberg had shared a series of throwback photos on February 17, 15, and 14, as well as a Valentine’s Day post dedicated to her partner, talent agent Jay Cohen.

On February 12, she posted a more recent selfie with the caption: “Eye of the Tiger.”

Defending Herself Against Health Speculation

In the past year, fans had expressed concern over Trachtenberg’s appearance, pointing out her apparent weight loss and a yellowish tint in her eyes. However, she was quick to shut down speculation.

“Explain to me how I look sick,” she wrote in response to a follower’s comment last January. She also reminded fans of her age, saying: “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14? I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”

She later doubled down in a separate post, writing: “I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters.”

A Talent Loved By A Whole Generation

Born in New York City on October 11, 1985, Trachtenberg began acting at just three years old. She gained early recognition in Nickelodeon’s The Adventures of Pete & Pete before breaking out in 1996’s Harriet the Spy. She later starred as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and played the scheming Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.

Her film credits included EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and 17 Again.

As Hollywood mourns the loss of a beloved actress who helped shape the childhoods of a generation, questions remain about what led to her sudden passing.

While investigations continue, fans continue to flood her social media with tributes, remembering her kindness, talent, and the roles that made her an icon of the ’90s and 2000s.

Featured image credit:J. Vespa/WireImage/Getty

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, who was found deceased in her New York City residence on February 26, 2025, at the age of 39.

Known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, Trachtenberg's unexpected passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from friends and colleagues, notably from Princess Eugenie of York.

Credit: Instagram

Princess Eugenie, who developed a close friendship with Trachtenberg during her time in New York between 2013 and 2015, expressed her sorrow on Instagram.

She wrote: "Goodbye special friend. You are so loved and missed. Thank you for so many memories of laughter and fun. You were so thoughtful and generous and sooo funny."

Eugenie fondly recalled Trachtenberg's meticulous approach to ordering food, adding: "My favourite was listening to you order food, always done with precision so you got exactly what we all wanted." She concluded her tribute with: "I'm thinking of you up there friend, of your spirit that was so bright and your joy you brought to so many." 

Credit: Instagram

Their friendship was well-documented over the years. In 2013, the duo was spotted attending a basketball game at Madison Square Garden.

Trachtenberg often shared moments of their bond on social media, once describing Eugenie as "one of the most dearest, kindest, most genuine friends I have ever had in my life." 

The New York Police Department responded to an emergency call and found Trachtenberg "unconscious and unresponsive" in her apartment. Authorities have stated that "criminality is not suspected," and the cause of death will be determined by the medical examiner. 

In a statement, Trachtenberg's family conveyed their grief: "It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss." 

Tributes have poured in from the entertainment industry. Sarah Michelle Gellar, who portrayed Buffy Summers alongside Trachtenberg's Dawn Summers, shared a poignant message: "Michelle, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will always love you. The hardest thing in this world, is to live in it. I will be brave. I will live… for you." 

Blake Lively, Trachtenberg's co-star from Gossip Girl, reflected on her vibrant personality: "She laughed the fullest at someone's joke... she cared deeply about her work, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved, she was big and bold and distinctly herself." 

Michelle Trachtenberg's career spanned several decades, beginning with her role as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and later as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl. Her sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of many, with fans and friends alike remembering her for her talent, generosity, and the joy she brought into their lives.

Featured image credit: Michelle Trachtenberg / Instagram

More heartbreaking details have emerged following the tragic death of Michelle Trachtenberg.

The beloved actress - known for her roles in hit shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl - tragically passed away on Wednesday (Feb 26) at the age of 39.

Now, TMZ has reported that law enforcement sources have stated that Trachtenberg was found "unconscious and unresponsive" in bed at her Manhattan apartment by her mother, Lana.

Mom Lana then called the police and paramedics. Despite the immediate emergency response, Trachtenberg was pronounced dead at the scene.

“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss,” Trachtenberg’s representative, Gary Mantoosh, confirmed in a statement.

Her death comes just months after reportedly undergoing a liver transplant, per the New York Post. Sources have also corroborated this news to PEOPLE.

While the official cause of death has yet to be determined, reports indicate that complications from her transplant may have played a role. However, authorities have stated there is no suspicion of foul play.

The New York City medical examiner is set to conduct an autopsy.

Law enforcement sources confirm that Trachtenberg was last seen alive around 10:00PM Tuesday and had recently been out with friends, showing no immediate signs of distress.

Trachtenberg 'Knew That Death Was A High Possibility', Friend Says

Trachtenberg was aware of the severity of her health issues in the months leading up to her death, according to her friend Amanda de Cadenet.

De Cadenet, a photographer and TV host, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, writing: "I will not share the details of our conversations over the last 6 months, but you knew that death was a high possibility and I am only sorry that the outcome was not a better one."

In her initial post — later edited, per PageSix — she recalled a FaceTime call with Trachtenberg from a hospital bed. Though the actress’s appearance had changed, de Cadenet said her spirit remained intact.

"I will always remember you as the young vivacious woman I met when I took this photo of you … and seeing your face from the hospital bed when we FaceTimed recently, even though you did not look like you, your sweetness and humor were still alive," she wrote.

While de Cadenet chose to keep the details of their conversations private, she confirmed that Trachtenberg had come to terms with the seriousness of her condition and the possibility of a tragic outcome. She ended her message by wishing her late friend peace.

A Career That Defined a Generation

Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg began her career at just three years old.

She became known for appearing in some of the most popular shows and movies from the 90s and 00s -- making her a beloved star for millennials in particular as they grew up with her work.

Trachtenberg quickly rose to prominence with her role on The Adventures of Pete & Pete, before breaking into mainstream success with Harriet the Spy in 1996. She became a household name as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and later as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.

Her film credits include EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and 17 Again, making her a staple in the early 2000s teen movie scene.

Heartfelt Tributes from Hollywood

News of Michelle’s passing has shaken the entertainment industry, with co-stars and fellow actors paying their respects.

Rosie O’Donnell, who worked with Trachtenberg on Harriet the Spy, described the loss as “heartbreaking,” sharing: “I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”

Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass on Gossip Girl, wrote on Instagram Stories: “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers.”

David Boreanaz, her Buffy co-star, also expressed his sorrow: “So very sad … horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family.”

Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow on Buffy, reflected: “I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing. She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends.”

Fellow Buffy actor Emma Caulfield added: “Our Buffy family lost a little sister today … Rest in peace lovely Mish Mish. You are loved.”

James Marsters, known for playing Spike, praised Michelle’s intelligence and humor, writing: “My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. She was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person. She died much too young.”

Nickelodeon alum Kenan Thompson also paid tribute, writing: "Our first Nick movie star has departed us!! She was my friend and now she rests!! Check on your people!!!"

Her ex-boyfriend, X-Men actor Shawn Ashmore, also reminisced in a heartfelt tribute: "Incredibly sad to hear about Michelle’s passing.

"She was an incredible person and I will always remember the years we spent together fondly. She was loving, quirky and would never pass up a law and order SVU marathon:"

Ashmore added: "My condolences to her mother Lana and sister Irene! This is an incredible loss!"

Final Social Media Posts and Fan Tributes

Just days before her passing, Michelle shared a throwback Instagram post of herself in a green dress, playfully captioning it: “I wanted to look like naughty #Tinkerbell.” The post has since been flooded with messages from devastated fans.

One commenter wrote: “Rest in peace. Thank you for raising us all with your endless iconic roles.” Another shared a heartfelt memory:

“I met you once at an airport about 18 years ago, coming back from deployment. You sat and talked with me for about 45 minutes when you didn’t have to while we were waiting on our flight to Chicago. I kept that picture all the way up until last year when my computer crashed and it was lost. Thanks for the conversation and the memory, Michelle. Fair winds and following seas wherever your eternity lies.”

Last year, fans had expressed concern over her appearance, with many speculating about her health. Michelle, however, fiercely defended herself, stating she was “happy and healthy.”

“Explain to me how I look sick,” she wrote in response to a follower’s comment last January. She also pushed back against those who still saw her as the child star they grew up with, saying: “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14? I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”

“I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters," the actress wrote in a follow-up post.

Trachtenberg’s passing is a devastating loss for Hollywood and for the fans who grew up watching her on screen. While questions remain about the circumstances of her death, one thing is certain: her talent and impact will not be forgotten.

Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time, TMZ adds

Our thoughts continue to go out to Trachtenberg's family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty Images

Michelle Trachtenberg’s last Instagram post has been flooded with tributes following her tragic death at the age of 39.

According to the New York Post, the Harriet the Spy and Buffy the Vampire Slayer star was found dead by her mother early Wednesday morning at One Columbus Place, a luxury high-rise near Central Park in Manhattan, police sources confirmed.

Authorities stated that officers arrived to find her “unconscious and unresponsive” before EMS pronounced her dead at the scene.

Sources have since revealed that the actress had recently undergone a liver transplant, though it is unclear whether it played a role in her passing.

While her cause of death remains unknown, police have said it is not being investigated as suspicious. The New York City medical examiner will determine an official ruling.

Michelle Trachtenberg's Final Instagram Post, As Fans Pay Tribute

Just a week before her death (February 18), Trachtenberg shared a throwback photo on Instagram, writing: “I wanted to look like naughty, #Tinkerbell” in reference to her green dress.

The post has since been flooded with tributes from devastated fans, with one person writing: "Rest in peace. Thank you for raising us all with your endless iconic roles."

Another fan commented: "Rest in peace Michelle [...] you crafted so many characters that many of us were connected to. You captivated us with unique stories. Thank you for sharing your life & talent with us. You’ll be missed"

"My heart is broken," another wrote, with a third adding: "Rest in peace, you will be missed."

One person shared a poignant story, writing: "I met you once at an airport about 18 years ago, coming back from deployment. You sat and talked with me for about 45 minutes when you didn't have to while we were waiting on our flight to Chicago. I kept that picture all the way up until last year when my computer crashed and it was lost.

"Thanks for conversation and the memory Michelle. Fair winds and following seas wherever your eternity lies."

Prior to this final post, Trachtenberg shared three more throwback photos on February 17, 15, and 14, as well as a Valentine's Day post to partner Jay Cohen.

On February 12, she had also posted a more recent selfie with the caption: “Eye of the Tiger.”

On her 39th birthday in October, she had shared a glamorous shot with the caption, “39 and I’m feeling fiiiiiine.”

Last year, Trachtenberg made headlines after followers voiced concerns about her appearance, noting an apparent weight loss.

Some pointed out that her hair looked thinner and that her eyes had a yellowish tint, leading to speculation about possible health issues. In response to the comments, Trachtenberg defended herself in the comments section, writing: “Explain to me how I look sick.

She also reminded followers that she's not the age many of them remember her as, saying: “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14? I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”

Later, she addressed the comments in a separate post, denying any health issues. “I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters,” she wrote.

Born in New York City on October 11, 1985, Trachtenberg began acting at just three years old.

She gained early fame in Nickelodeon’s The Adventures of Pete & Pete before breaking out in 1996’s Harriet the Spy.

She later starred in Buffy the Vampire Slayer as Dawn Summers and played the scheming Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.

Her movie credits included EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and 17 Again.

In 2021, Trachtenberg made headlines when she alleged that Buffy creator Joss Whedon had been physically abusive on set, claiming there was a “rule” in place to prevent him from being alone in a room with her. Whedon denied the allegations.

While Hollywood mourns her sudden loss, questions remain about what led to her tragic passing. Investigations into her cause of death are ongoing.

Our thoughts continue to go out to Trachtenberg’s family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Jemal Countess / Getty

Michelle Trachtenberg's family has declined an autopsy as her loved ones continue to grieve her loss.

The 39-year-old star was found "unconscious and unresponsive" in bed at her Manhattan apartment by her mother, Lana, according to law enforcement sources cited by TMZ.

Emergency responders were called to the scene, but Trachtenberg was pronounced dead upon their arrival.

“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss,” her representative, Gary Mantoosh, said in a statement.

Law enforcement sources say Trachtenberg was last seen alive around 10:00PM on Tuesday.

She had reportedly been out with friends that evening and showed no immediate signs of distress.

While the medical examiner’s office would typically perform an autopsy in cases involving foul play or criminal activity, no such circumstances were suspected, and the family’s wishes to forgo one were honored.

According to The New York Post, the office stated that it was “obligated to honour the family’s request due to the state’s public health law.”

As a result, only an external examination was conducted, which limits the ability to determine an official cause of death. Her cause of death will remain undetermined.

Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg began her career in entertainment at just three years old.

She gained early recognition for her role on The Adventures of Pete & Pete before achieving mainstream success as the lead in Harriet the Spy (1996).

She later became a household name as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.

Her film credits include EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and 17 Again, cementing her status as a key figure in early 2000s pop culture.

Days before her passing, Trachtenberg shared an Instagram post of herself in a green dress, captioning it: “I wanted to look like naughty #Tinkerbell.” The post has since been flooded with tributes.

One fan wrote: “Rest in peace. Thank you for raising us all with your endless iconic roles.”

Another recalled a chance encounter with the actress nearly two decades ago:

“I met you once at an airport about 18 years ago, coming back from deployment. You sat and talked with me for about 45 minutes when you didn’t have to while we were waiting on our flight to Chicago… Thanks for the conversation and the memory, Michelle. Fair winds and following seas wherever your eternity lies.”

Trachtenberg’s death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with co-stars and colleagues sharing their grief.

Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside her in Harriet the Spy, said: “I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”

Ed Westwick (Gossip Girl) wrote: “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers.”

David Boreanaz (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) called the news “horrible,” while Alyson Hannigan (Buffy) reflected: “She brought a loving energy to the set.”

Emma Caulfield (Buffy) added: “Our Buffy family lost a little sister today … Rest in peace lovely Mish Mish.”

James Marsters, known for playing Spike in Buffy, praised Trachtenberg’s intelligence and humor, stating: “We have lost a beautiful soul. She was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person. She died much too young.”

Kenan Thompson, who worked with her on Nickelodeon, wrote: "Our first Nick movie star has departed us!! She was my friend and now she rests!! Check on your people!!!"

Her former boyfriend, X-Men actor Shawn Ashmore, also shared a heartfelt tribute: “She was an incredible person and I will always remember the years we spent together fondly.”

Featured image credit: James Devaney / Getty