Michelle Trachtenberg, 'Buffy' and 'Gossip Girl' Star, Dies at 39

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Gossip Girl," and "Harriet the Spy," has died at the age of 39.  

"It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away," her representative told The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday morning. "The family requests privacy for their loss. There are no further details at this time." The New York Post broke the news.

Trachtenberg began her career as a child actress, appearing in an episode of "Law & Order" in 1991. She gained further recognition with roles on Nickelodeon's "Clarissa Explains it All" and "The Adventures of Pete & Pete," and later on the soap opera "All My Children."  

Her breakout role came in 1996 when she starred in the film "Harriet the Spy" at the age of 10. She later moved to Los Angeles to pursue her acting career, while remaining "bicoastal."  

Trachtenberg became a household name playing Dawn Summers, the younger sister of Buffy Summers, on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" from 2000 to 2003. She also played Georgina Sparks on "Gossip Girl," a role she reprised in the HBO Max reboot.  

Other notable credits include "EuroTrip," "Mysterious Skin," "Six Feet Under," "Inspector Gadget," and "Robot Chicken."  

Trachtenberg was dedicated to her education, often having a tutor on set. She expressed a desire to attend college and study filmmaking.  

In recent months, Trachtenberg spoke out against online bullying after facing criticism about her appearance on social media. She clarified that she had not undergone plastic surgery and emphasized the importance of self-acceptance.