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Michelle Trachtenberg 'struggled' before her death: Rosie O'Donnell revealed

Michelle Trachtenberg 'struggled the last few years': Friend and co-star Rosie O'Donnell reveals

O'Donnell starred with the young actress in 1996's 'Harriet the Spy'


Daniel Neira
Daniel Neira - Los Angeles
Senior WriterLos Angeles
FEBRUARY 26, 2025 3:15 PM EST

Michelle Trachtenberg passed away at 39, as confirmed by police sources. The actress had stepped away from the spotlight in recent years, with fans sharing concern on social media following some of her posts. 

Michelle Tractenberg as Dawn stars in 20th Century Fox's "Buffy The Vampire Slayer'© Getty Images
Michelle Tractenberg as Dawn stars in 20th Century Fox's "Buffy The Vampire Slayer'

The star, who found success in the entertainment industry at a young age, and starred in many fan-favorite movies and television series, including Harriet the Spy, Gossip Girl, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ice Princess, EuroTrip, and many more, is now being mourned by her longtime friends and co-stars, including Rosie O'Donnell.

Rosie O'Donnell and Michelle Trachtenberg during "Harriet the Spy" New York City Benefit Premiere © Ron Galella
Rosie O'Donnell and Michelle Trachtenberg during "Harriet the Spy" New York City Benefit Premiere

O'Donnell starred with the young actress in 1996's Harriet the Spy, when she was just 10 years old. "I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped," she said in a statement after learning the "heartbreaking" news.

Rosie O''Donell and Michelle Trachtenberg star in the first Nickolodeon movie "Harriet the Spy"© Getty Images
Rosie O''Donell and Michelle Trachtenberg star in the first Nickolodeon movie "Harriet the Spy"

The New York Police Department confirmed that the actress was found around 8 a.m. Wednesday at One Columbus Place, a 51-store luxury apartment complex on Central Park South. It was also reported that her death is not being investigated as suspicious. 

Michelle Trachtenberg on December 21, 2006 in New York City. © Scott Gries
Michelle Trachtenberg on December 21, 2006 in New York City.

"Upon arrival, officers observed a 39-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive. EMS responded to the location and pronounced the victim deceased," police said to People, adding, "Criminality is not suspected."

Michelle's last credited role was in 2023 when she reprised the popular role of Georgina Sparks on Max's Gossip Girl reboot.

Michelle responded to health concerns:

“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 in February 2024 after online users commented on her appearance. 

Michelle Trachtenberg in Los Angeles, California © Gilbert Flores
Michelle Trachtenberg in Los Angeles, California

"Fun fact. This is my face. Not malnutrition no problems. Why do you have to hate? Get a calendar," the actress wrote on Instagram.

Earlier this year the actress had shared a series of throwback photos and had been active on social media, with fans wondering about her well-being.

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