Sarah Michelle Gellar, Taylor Momsen, and Blake Lively are among the notable figures paying heartfelt tributes to Michelle Trachtenberg following her passing on Wednesday. The actress was discovered “unconscious and unresponsive” in her New York residence, according to information provided by the NYPD. Trachtenberg was 39.
Sarah Michelle Gellar, known for her role in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” expressed her sorrow 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.”
Blake Lively, who worked with Trachtenberg on “Gossip Girl,” shared her memories and admiration: “Everything she did, she did 200%. She laughed the fullest at someone’s joke, she faced authority head on when she felt something was wrong, she cared deeply about her work, she was proud to be a part of this community and industry as painful as it could be sometimes, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved, she was big and bold and distinctly herself.”
Kim Cattrall simply stated, “Rest in peace sweet Michelle.”
Melissa Joan Hart, who appeared alongside Trachtenberg in “Clarissa Explains It All,” was also moved by the loss, writing: “I’m heartbroken to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg!! So young, so talented and so sweet!”
Taylor Momsen, a fellow “Gossip Girl” alum, spoke fondly of their friendship: “She was simply awesome. I’ll miss our late night calls that no one should ever hear but us. She was always in my corner and there to support me whether I was right or wrong. I will miss you everyday my love.. I think we truly understood each other and I am so grateful to have had a friend like you in my life for so long.”
Chace Crawford, another co-star from “Gossip Girl,” recalled their early days on set: “Michelle was one of a kind. I remember her coming on set for the first time and just absolutely owning it. She was a force of nature and just so so unapologetically funny and magnetic.. remembering those years with a big smile. Just a terrible loss. Love you.”
James Marsters, who shared the screen with Trachtenberg in “Buffy,” offered his condolences: “My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person. She died much too young, and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her. My heart goes out to her family who are good people, and are suffering the greatest loss anyone could bear. I hope everyone can give them space to heal in this most difficult time. Godspeed Michelle. You are missed.”
In a brief but poignant tribute, Kate Beckinsale commented: “What a terrible shock and loss, my god. My heart aches for your mama. Fly safe little bird.”
