Michelle Trachtenberg Dies at 39 from Diabetes Complications in New York City
Feb. 26, 2025 — New York City Michelle Trachtenberg, the actress known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, died at age 39 from complications of diabetes mellitus, the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner ruled.[1][2] The cause was officially confirmed in statements issued in April 2025.[3][4]
The ruling classified her death as natural. Leading up to her passing, sources close to Trachtenberg reported she was “really sick” and “struggling,” having undergone a recent liver transplant that may have contributed to complications.[8][9][10]
“Michelle Trachtenberg was really sick and struggling last year prior to her death,” a source told People magazine on Feb. 26, 2025.
Friends and insiders described her as appearing frail, with reports of multiple health issues including possible liver disease such as primary biliary cirrhosis or fatty liver disease, as well as bone and back problems.[11][12]
Prior Health Speculation
Trachtenberg had previously spoken out against rumors about her health before her death.[13] Coverage from CNN on April 17, 2025, detailed her response to speculation.
Official Confirmation
The diabetes ruling was corroborated by multiple outlets, including Today.com on April 17, 2025, and BBC on April 16, 2025.[3][5][7] NBC News on Feb. 27, 2025, linked her condition to fatty liver disease context.[6]
Discussions on X referenced her death and the diabetes ruling but reported no new developments as of 2026.[14]
