Michelle Trachtenberg’s Cause of Death Revealed After ‘Gossip Girl’ Star Dies at 39

Medical Examiner Rules Death as ‘Undetermined’ Amid Family’s Request to Decline Autopsy

New York City – The entertainment industry continues to mourn the sudden passing of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, best known for her roles in Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Days after her tragic death at the age of 39, the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in New York City has officially released her cause of death, ruling it as ‘undetermined.’

The news has left fans and Hollywood insiders with more questions than answers, as the term “undetermined” is used when there is insufficient information to conclude how a person died or when conflicting evidence exists regarding the manner of death, such as whether it was an accident, homicide, or suicide.

Trachtenberg’s family declined an autopsy, a decision that was honored by the medical examiner’s office, according to reports from CNN and ABC News. This means that while toxicology reports and other medical examinations may offer some insight, the exact circumstances surrounding her passing may never be fully known.

Tragic Discovery: Michelle Trachtenberg Found Unresponsive in NYC Home

The New York Police Department (NYPD) stated that Trachtenberg was found unconscious and unresponsive in her Manhattan residence on the morning of February 28, 2025. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived on the scene shortly after receiving a 911 call, but the actress was pronounced dead at the scene.

While the NYPD has confirmed that no criminal involvement is suspected, the investigation remains open to determine if there were any underlying medical, environmental, or external factors that contributed to her death.

Hollywood Reacts: Outpouring of Grief for a Lost Star

As the heartbreaking news spread, tributes from friends, co-stars, and fans flooded social media, honoring the life and career of Michelle Trachtenberg, who first gained recognition as a child star before becoming a household name.

Blake Lively: "She Was Electricity"

Blake Lively, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in Gossip Girl, shared a deeply personal tribute:

"She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed. Everything she did, she did 200%."

Lively continued by saying that the world had lost a deeply sensitive and kind soul, adding:

"May her work and her huge heart be remembered by those who were lucky enough to experience her fire."

Rosie O'Donnell: "She Struggled the Last Few Years"

Rosie O’Donnell, who co-starred with a young Trachtenberg in Harriet the Spy (1996), expressed her heartbreak:

"I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped."

Many of her colleagues and admirers echoed these sentiments, remembering her passion, wit, and undeniable talent.

A Career That Defined a Generation

Born in New York City in 1985, Michelle Trachtenberg began acting at an early age. She first gained widespread recognition in Nickelodeon’s The Adventures of Pete & Pete before securing the lead role in Harriet the Spy (1996).

Her breakout role came in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, where she played Dawn Summers, the younger sister of Sarah Michelle Gellar’s Buffy. She later stunned audiences with her portrayal of the manipulative and cunning Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl, a role that made her one of the show’s most unforgettable characters.

Other notable works include:
✔️ EuroTrip (2004) – A cult classic comedy
✔️ Ice Princess (2005) – A Disney coming-of-age sports drama
✔️ Killing Kennedy (2013) – A historical TV drama
✔️ Meet, Marry, Murder (2021) – A true-crime docuseries she hosted

Her versatility in acting allowed her to take on a wide range of characters, from teen dramas to thrillers, making her a beloved figure in pop culture.

What Happens Next? Ongoing Investigation & Questions Left Unanswered

With Trachtenberg’s family declining an autopsy, speculation surrounding the cause of her untimely death continues to swirl. Although there is no evidence of foul play, the lack of a conclusive medical examination means that the full circumstances may never be fully disclosed to the public.

The medical examiner’s ruling of "undetermined" could later be reassessed if new evidence emerges, but for now, fans and colleagues are left mourning the sudden loss of a talented actress whose career spanned decades.

Remembering Michelle Trachtenberg: A Life That Shined Bright

While the world may never have all the answers regarding Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing, what remains certain is that her legacy in film and television will live on. Her ability to captivate audiences with her performances and her impact on young actors continues to resonate.

As Hollywood mourns yet another gone-too-soon star, her memory is honored through her work, friendships, and the countless fans who admired her.