The former child actress denied health concerns just over a year before her passing. She had reportedly been “struggling” and confided in friends about what she was going through.

“Gossip Girl” star Michelle Trachtenberg looked “less and less like herself” in the months leading up to her death at 39. She passed away on February 26, 2025, raising concerns about her health in her final days.

Her mother found her at One Columbus Place, a luxury high-rise near Central Park South. She had undergone a liver transplant in 2024, but complications from organ rejection may have played a role in her death, according to sources, which has been classified as natural causes.

The New York Police Department reported that officers discovered the actress “unconscious and unresponsive” before EMS arrived and pronounced her dead at the scene. According to authorities, there was no suspicion of foul play, and the city medical examiner will determine the official cause.

The Hollywood star’s death was later officially confirmed by her representative. “It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss,” Gary Mantoosh stated.

Her presence in the community left a positive impression on those around her. Trachtenberg was a well-liked neighbor in her New York City building, with residents recalling her as friendly and approachable.

“Michelle always seemed happy, I never noticed anything off about her at all,” said Rafael Williams, who lived above her. Although he did not know Trachtenberg personally, she always made a point to greet him in the elevator. He was shocked to learn about her passing, noting that she never seemed to have any problems. Williams also hopes that her family is doing okay.

Ariana Rodriguez, another neighbor, shared similar sentiments, also mentioning Trachtenberg’s relationship with her boyfriend, Jay Cohen, “Michelle was a great neighbor. She wasn’t loud, smiled at everyone in the hallways.” She saw Trachtenberg with her boyfriend several times and noted that they were always walking either hand-in-hand or with his arm around her.

Rodriguez also noticed changes in Trachtenberg’s appearance. She described her as looking “svelte” and “less and less like herself in the last few months.” Rodriguez felt the weight of the loss, expressing sadness that she would no longer see Trachtenberg, who always took a moment to greet her, in the building.

As those who knew her reflected on their memories, news of Trachtenberg’s passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from friends and former colleagues.

The celebrity’s “Gossip Girl” co-star Ed Westwick honored her by sharing a throwback photo from the series. In addition, the actor shared his condolences, saying it was sad to hear about Trachtenberg’s passing and that he was sending prayers.

Other colleagues also shared their grief. Actress Kim Cattrall honored Trachtenberg with a heartfelt tribute, posting a photo of them from the Disney film “Ice Princess.” Alongside the image, she expressed her sorrow, wishing the star peace.

Moreover, Melissa Gilbert reflected on their time together in the movie “Holiday for Love,” posting a throwback photo and expressing deep sadness. She mentioned how they had lived close to each other and shared that her heart ached for Trachtenberg’s family and loved ones.

David Boreanaz, who worked with her on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” also expressed his condolences. He described the news as tragic, extended prayers to Trachtenberg and her family, and wished her peace.

Meanwhile, Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in “Harriet the Spy,” conveyed her sorrow in a statement, “Heartbreaking. I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”

Others who had crossed paths with Trachtenberg also shared their grief. British photographer and media personality Amanda de Cadenet paid tribute to the actress with a moving Instagram post, sharing a throwback photo from her youth.

“Sweetheart Michelle. What sad news this morning to wake up to. It feels weird and awful to be posting this, but I want to acknowledge your death because I cared about you,” de Cadenet wrote.

De Cadenet expressed gratitude for reconnecting with Trachtenberg in recent months and remembered her as the vibrant young woman she once photographed. She wished her a peaceful transition and eternal rest.

Trachtenberg’s passing has also brought attention to the challenges she faced in the year leading up to her death. A source revealed that the New Yorker had been “really down emotionally” and coping with ongoing health concerns.

She had confided in friends about her struggles, openly sharing how much she was going through. According to the insider, her appearance had also changed noticeably. The celebrity was described as looking “pale, gaunt” and “very thin,” signs that those close to her had observed in recent months.

Trachtenberg’s appearance in her later social media posts also drew attention. In an Instagram photo shared on January 18, 2024, she posed alongside actress Alexa Vega while getting their hair done.

She smiled softly at the camera, though her noticeably thinner frame, pale complexion, and delicate hair did not go unnoticed. The star captioned the post, “These kids…now adults getting our roots/hair done! Love this girl @vegaalexa.”

Followers reacted with concern in the comment section. Some expressed worry over her hair, noting significant thinning. “She is losing her hair… why is no one talking abt the hairline. This is concerning [sic],” one person remarked. Another observed, “Loss of hair is very noticeable.”

Others commented on her overall health, comparing her appearance to previous years. “The last movie I saw her in she was overweight, now scary unhealthy looking [sic],” one user wrote. Another reacted, “[…] Eeek looking a bit unwell..[sic]”

Several speculated about possible medical issues, specifically mentioning symptoms of liver problems. “[expletive] if you’re 17 or 38 (like me). your [expletive] eyes are yellow and your hair is thinner than my silver hair.. something is wrong girl, and we’re concerned [sic]” one person stated.

Another questioned, “Is your liver shutting down? Your eyes are yellow and you are literally missing hair. It’s not hate, it’s an observation. You look really ill.” One follower summed up the general worry, “Omgosh she looks so sick. I hope she’s ok [sic].”

Concerns continued to grow as more people questioned her well-being, but Trachtenberg did not hesitate to push back against the speculation. She responded directly to one commenter, “Explain to me how I look sick. Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14. I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”

Unwilling to ignore the scrutiny any longer, she confronted the ongoing remarks about her appearance. The next day, she addressed the discussion in an Instagram post.

She acknowledged the comments and dismissed any 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.”

More than a year after shutting down speculation about her health, Trachtenberg shared what would become her final Instagram post on February 18, 2025. The social upload featured a throwback photo from a past red carpet event. In the image, the beloved former child star looked radiant with long, dark waves, striking blue eyes, and full glam makeup.

Dressed in an elegant green gown with statement earrings, she exuded old Hollywood glamour. She captioned the post, “I wanted to look like naughty #tinkerbell #throwback.”

Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing has left a profound impact on those who knew and admired her, from former co-stars to longtime fans. Her final months were marked by public concern, but she continued to present herself with strength and grace.

Despite speculation about her health, she maintained that she was happy and healthy. As tributes continue to pour in, she will be remembered for her talent, warmth, and the lasting impression she left on Hollywood and beyond.