Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her memorable roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, tragically passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 39. As news of her sudden death spread, tributes from her co-stars, friends, and fans were shared on social media, each reflecting on the legacy she left behind.
Among those mourning her loss are Sarah Michelle Gellar, her Buffy co-star, and several other celebrities and A-list stars who worked with her and spent memorable moments with the actress.
Sarah Michelle Gellar, who portrayed Buffy Summers on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared an emotional tribute to her late co-star, writing on Instagram: “Michelle, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will always love you. The hardest thing in this world, is to live in it. I will be brave. I will live… for you.”
© Lee CelanoAs news of Michelle’s passing broke, many former co-stars and friends took to social media to share their grief and admiration for the actress. James Marsters, who played Spike on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared: "My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person."
© Kevin MazurBlake Lively, known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl, shared on Instagram: "Michelle was electricity. She was passion. She was loyalty. She was bravery. She was love. She was my friend. I will miss her dearly."
© Patrick McMullanMore of Michelle's Gossip Girl co-stars shared sweet tributes, including Taylor Momsen, who portrayed Jenny Humphrey: "I am heartbroken to hear of Michelle's passing. She was a true friend and a talented actress. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones."
© Brian KillianKelly Rutherford, known for her role as Lily van der Woodsen, paid tribute: "Michelle's energy and spirit were infectious. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her." Ed Westwick also expressed his sadness:"So sad to hear of the passing of [Michelle] sending prayers."
