Michelle Trachtenberg, widely recognized for her roles in Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, has reportedly passed away at the age of 39.
According to reports, the Gossip Girl star was found deceased earlier today around 8:00 am at One Columbus Place, as confirmed by police sources to The New York Post and ABC News.
Authorities stated that her death is not being treated as suspicious, and it is currently believed that the 39-year-old passed away from natural causes.
An autopsy is expected to be conducted to determine the cause and manner of Trachtenberg’s passing.
Trachtenberg made her acting debut at just three years old, appearing in the Nickelodeon television series Adventures of Pete and Pete, which aired from 1994 to 1996.
She starred in several Nickelodeon productions before landing a role in the 2004 film Eurotrip and later gained widespread recognition for her performances in Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
On Gossip Girl, Trachtenberg portrayed Georgina Sparks, while in the supernatural drama, she played the younger sister of the titular character, Summer.
Her role in the latter earned her three Saturn Award nominations and a Young Artist Award win.
Trachtenberg also voiced Judy Reilly in the American adult animated comedy series Human Kind Of, which premiered on Facebook Watch, and starred in films such as Ice Princess (2005) and 17 Again (2009) alongside Zac Efron.
Fans of the star have taken to social media to pay tribute and commemorate her legacy.
One Twitter user said: “RIP Georgina. What a legendary role.”
“39? That’s crazy. Such a beautiful and talented actress,” another added.
An Instagram user commented on Trachtenberg’s last Instagram post shared one week ago of her at a red carpet event.
The user wrote: “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 big hugs to your family & friends. Although we’ll all miss you, we know their lives will be forever changed we’re so sorry for their loss and sending extra love to them at this time.”
And another resolved: “She was so young!!! Rest in peace we loved your movies growing up Ice Princess, 17 Again, Harriet The Spy.”
Her Gossip Girl co-star Ed Westwick has also reacted to the news. Writing on his story, the British actor said: “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg sending prayers,” accompanied with a prayer emoji and a white heart.