The New York City, New York, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has confirmed that actress Michelle Trachtenberg died from natural causes linked to complications of diabetes mellitus. The confirmation was made public on Wednesday, April 15, 2025, approximately two months after the 39-year-old actress was found unresponsive in her Manhattan apartment on February 26.
Known for her performances in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Gossip Girl,” and the 1996 film “Harriet the Spy,” Trachtenberg was discovered following a 911 call. Authorities found no evidence of foul play at the scene.
As reported by People magazine, which obtained information from the medical examiner’s office, her death was classified as natural. The specific diabetes-related complications were not detailed by officials.
Sources close to the actress noted that Trachtenberg had undergone a liver transplant before her death. The timing and reasons for the procedure remain undisclosed. An anonymous source informed NBC News about the transplant, citing potential links between diabetes and liver health.
Medical professionals highlight that diabetes can increase the likelihood of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, potentially leading to severe liver scarring or cirrhosis. Both conditions share several common risk factors.
The medical examiner respected the family’s religious objections to a traditional autopsy. Trachtenberg’s family, being Orthodox Jews, adhere to customs that generally prohibit altering the body after death. Officials determined the cause of death through laboratory tests instead of a full post-mortem.
“This was the first day I met Michelle,” Blake Lively wrote on Instagram in February, sharing a photo from their “Gossip Girl” days. “She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed. Everything she did, she did 200%.”
US Magazine reported that those familiar with Trachtenberg had noticed changes in her health in the year before she died. Sources described her as “pale, gaunt, very thin” and mentioned she had been “really, really sick” and “struggling” with health issues.
Despite her health difficulties, Trachtenberg had previously addressed critics’ comments about her appearance on social media, maintaining her privacy regarding her medical conditions throughout her career.
Trachtenberg started her career as a child actress, appearing in television commercials before landing more significant roles. Her role as the lead in “Harriet the Spy” showcased her talent, and her portrayal of Dawn Summers on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar expanded her audience.
Her role as Georgina Sparks on “Gossip Girl” highlighted her acting range and became one of her most recognizable roles. Trachtenberg also appeared in films like “EuroTrip” and “Ice Princess,” demonstrating versatility across genres.
Following her death, Trachtenberg’s former co-star Sarah Michelle Gellar expressed her sorrow on social media, praising her talent and personality. Gellar described Trachtenberg as fiercely loyal and brave.
According to ABC News, diabetes affects around 38 million Americans and is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States. The condition can lead to complications beyond liver disease, including cardiovascular issues, eye disease, nerve damage, kidney disease, and skin conditions.
For transplant recipients like Trachtenberg, diabetes complications can be particularly challenging. Medical literature indicates that new-onset diabetes can sometimes occur after organ transplantation, potentially due to anti-rejection medications needed for transplant patients.
At the time of her passing, Trachtenberg remained active in the entertainment industry and was reportedly planning to attend the SXSW Festival shortly before her death. Her sudden passing surprised fans who were largely unaware of her health struggles.
News of Trachtenberg’s cause of death comes as her colleagues and fans continue to mourn her. Other “Gossip Girl” cast members, including Chace Crawford and co-stars from various projects, have also paid tribute to the actress, remembering her contributions to film and television.
