Michelle Trachtenberg, a former child star best known for her role in Harriet the Spy and later Buffy the Vampire Slayer, tragically passed away this morning. Her body was found in her luxury 51-story apartment in Manhattan’s Central Park South neighborhood. The discovery was reportedly made by her mother around 8:00 a.m. The medical examiner responded to the scene, and while the cause of death is still under investigation, police have stated that no criminality is suspected.

In recent weeks, Michelle had sparked concern due to her frail appearance, which she had shared on social media. The 39-year-old actress, who had undergone a liver transplant in the past, had reportedly been experiencing complications. She had been active on Instagram, posting images where her eyes appeared yellow, prompting followers to urge her to seek medical attention. Michelle responded to these concerns by saying, “Explain to me how I look sick. Fun fact, this is my face, not malnutrition,” adding that she was both happy and healthy. However, those close to her noted that she had been struggling with emotional distress, as evidenced by her DDP (Emotionally Distressed Person) history noted in the emergency dispatch call.

Rosie O’Donnell, Michelle’s Harriet the Spy co-star, spoke out following the news of her passing. O’Donnell shared her heartfelt thoughts, revealing that Michelle had faced challenges in recent years. She expressed regret, wishing that she could have helped her. O’Donnell fondly remembered working with Michelle on Harriet the Spy, sharing that she had been a big supporter of Michelle’s early career. In an emotional statement, O’Donnell recalled that Michelle had turned 10 years old on the first day of principal photography for the film.

Michelle began her acting career at a young age, with her breakout role in Harriet the Spy, where she portrayed the titular character. At the time, she expressed her ambition to pursue a career in filmmaking, stating, “I want to be an actress when I grow up. I want to write my own movies and I want to direct and star in them.” She later gained further recognition for her role as Sarah Michelle Gellar’s younger sister in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and for portraying a troublemaker in Gossip Girl, where she played the memorable character of Georgina Sparks.

Her passing has left a deep impact on her co-stars and friends. Gossip Girl actor Ed Westwick expressed his condolences, sending prayers and support. Fellow cast members from both Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl have remembered her as a talented, hardworking actress who touched the lives of those around her.

Michelle’s legacy lives on through her iconic roles in television and film, and she will be missed by her fans, friends, and all who had the pleasure of working with her. Her passing has left the entertainment community in mourning, as she was a beloved figure who inspired many throughout her career.