Health
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Trachtenberg's Death Ruled Natural: Diabetes Complications
## Trachtenberg's Death Ruled Natural: Complications from Diabetes
NEW YORK, NY – The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed Wednesday that actress Michelle Trachtenberg died of complications from diabetes mellitus. The manner of death was ruled natural. Trachtenberg, 39, was found deceased in her New York City apartment on February 26th, prompting a 911 call. Initially, the cause of death was listed as undetermined, as her family declined an autopsy.
While the medical examiner's office stated that toxicology test results provided further clarity, sources previously revealed that Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant and had been openly struggling with significant health challenges in the preceding year. One source described her as “pale, gaunt, very thin, and dealing with health issues,” noting that she had been "really really down emotionally" and "open with those in her circle about how much she was struggling." Despite these challenges, Trachtenberg publicly addressed online criticism regarding her appearance just months before her death.
Trachtenberg's career spanned several decades, beginning with roles on Nickelodeon's *The Adventures of Pete & Pete* and *Harriet the Spy*, followed by breakout roles as Dawn Summers on *Buffy the Vampire Slayer* (2000-2003) and Georgina Sparks on *Gossip Girl* (2008-2012). Her performances garnered significant acclaim, solidifying her status as a beloved actress.
Following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in from fellow actors. Blake Lively, her *Gossip Girl* co-star, described her as "electricity," while Sarah Michelle Gellar, her *Buffy* co-star and on-screen sister, shared an emotional Instagram post quoting lines from the show's finale, expressing her love and grief. Rosie O'Donnell, who worked with Trachtenberg on *Harriet the Spy*, also expressed her sadness and noted Trachtenberg's struggles in recent years. 20th Century Fox Television, the producer of *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, released a statement acknowledging Trachtenberg’s significant contribution to the show and the impact she had on fans. The news of her passing shocked fans and the entertainment industry alike.
NEW YORK, NY – The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed Wednesday that actress Michelle Trachtenberg died of complications from diabetes mellitus. The manner of death was ruled natural. Trachtenberg, 39, was found deceased in her New York City apartment on February 26th, prompting a 911 call. Initially, the cause of death was listed as undetermined, as her family declined an autopsy.
While the medical examiner's office stated that toxicology test results provided further clarity, sources previously revealed that Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant and had been openly struggling with significant health challenges in the preceding year. One source described her as “pale, gaunt, very thin, and dealing with health issues,” noting that she had been "really really down emotionally" and "open with those in her circle about how much she was struggling." Despite these challenges, Trachtenberg publicly addressed online criticism regarding her appearance just months before her death.
Trachtenberg's career spanned several decades, beginning with roles on Nickelodeon's *The Adventures of Pete & Pete* and *Harriet the Spy*, followed by breakout roles as Dawn Summers on *Buffy the Vampire Slayer* (2000-2003) and Georgina Sparks on *Gossip Girl* (2008-2012). Her performances garnered significant acclaim, solidifying her status as a beloved actress.
Following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in from fellow actors. Blake Lively, her *Gossip Girl* co-star, described her as "electricity," while Sarah Michelle Gellar, her *Buffy* co-star and on-screen sister, shared an emotional Instagram post quoting lines from the show's finale, expressing her love and grief. Rosie O'Donnell, who worked with Trachtenberg on *Harriet the Spy*, also expressed her sadness and noted Trachtenberg's struggles in recent years. 20th Century Fox Television, the producer of *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, released a statement acknowledging Trachtenberg’s significant contribution to the show and the impact she had on fans. The news of her passing shocked fans and the entertainment industry alike.
