Gossip Girl star Michelle Trachtenberg, aged 39, tragically passes away, leaving behind her partner Jay Cohen and a legacy in Hollywood.

Michelle Trachtenberg, the beloved actress known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, tragically passed away at the age of 39.

Her death, which occurred in her New York City apartment on February 26, 2025, sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, leaving fans and friends devastated.

Michelle’s untimely passing has raised questions about her recent health struggles and the life she was building with her long-term partner, talent agent Jay Cohen.

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According to reports, Michelle was discovered by her mother early that Wednesday morning, unresponsive in her apartment near Columbus Circle.

The circumstances surrounding her death have been classified as non-suspicious by the authorities, though it has been reported that Michelle had recently undergone a liver transplant due to health complications from alcohol issues.

Despite her challenging health battles, there was no immediate evidence of foul play, and the investigation remains ongoing, with the official cause of death pending from the medical examiner.

Michelle’s personal life had been on a steady course of happiness, especially with her relationship with Jay Cohen, who had been by her side for nearly five years.

The couple’s romance blossomed from a professional connection, as Cohen had been Michelle’s talent agent at The Gersh Agency, a prominent Hollywood agency. They began dating in 2020, though they had known each other since Michelle signed with Gersh in 2014.

Over the years, Michelle and Jay shared their love with fans on social media, posting pictures of their vacations, costumes, and milestones, often expressing their deep affection for each other.

Jay, who heads the film finance and distribution division at Gersh, has had a successful career as a producer, having worked on notable films such as Swimming With Sharks, Two for the Money, and Bride Wars.

Before entering the entertainment industry, Jay had a successful career as an investment banker on Wall Street.

He later moved to Los Angeles, where he forged a strong partnership with Oscar-winning actor Dustin Hoffman, and went on to found Cosmic Entertainment alongside industry giants like Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.

His personal life included raising two daughters, Lili and Rachel, whom he often celebrated on social media, even sharing moments from his daughter Lili’s wedding in November 2023.

Michelle’s last Instagram post, shared just days before her death, was a sweet tribute to Jay for Valentine’s Day. In the post, the couple dressed in elaborate Halloween costumes, with Jay as Frankenstein and Michelle as Dr.

Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The actress fondly captioned the image, expressing her love for Jay, calling him the man who “sits still long enough for me to paint his face.” This lighthearted post was one of many moments shared publicly, showcasing the depth of their affection.

As the world mourns Michelle’s loss, many have reflected on her impressive career. Michelle, who began acting at a young age, gained fame with her role as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

She was just a teenager when she joined the cult-hit series, portraying Buffy’s younger sister in a role that endeared her to fans around the world.

Her time on Buffy solidified her as a rising star, and she would go on to land various notable roles, including playing the conniving Georgina Sparks on Gossip Girl.

Her portrayal of Georgina, known as “The Witch of the Upper East Side,” became iconic, and she returned to the role in the 2023 reboot of the series.

Aside from acting, Michelle also found success as a producer. In 2021, she hosted and executive produced the true-crime series Meet, Marry, Murder for Tubi TV, further expanding her career into new territories.

Yet, her personal life remained the focal point for many fans, especially after Michelle made headlines with her candid responses to online critics.

In 2021, Michelle had to defend herself against comments that questioned her health and appearance, hitting back at “haters” who accused her of looking frail. She boldly declared that she was healthy and happy, urging people to mind their business.

Despite her public resilience, Michelle’s health had been a topic of concern. She had shared that she was recovering from a liver transplant after struggling with alcohol-related issues, a revelation that furthered speculation about her health leading up to her death.

It is unclear if the complications from her transplant played a role in her passing, but friends and family have expressed their sorrow, calling her death unexpected and heart-wrenching.

For those who knew her best, Michelle was more than just a television star; she was a beloved friend, a strong woman who faced adversity with grace and humor.

As fans continue to remember Michelle’s legacy, her work on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gossip Girl, and beyond will forever be etched in their hearts.

Her untimely death is a reminder of the fragile nature of life, and how those who bring joy to our screens often face personal struggles hidden from the public eye.

Michelle’s sudden passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, but her impact will continue to live on through her work and the love she shared with those closest to her.

As the world mourns Michelle’s passing, her family has requested privacy during this difficult time. While the investigation continues, the tributes to her life and career are pouring in, with fans, co-stars, and friends reflecting on her enduring legacy in Hollywood.

Jay Cohen, who shared nearly five years of love with Michelle, has yet to publicly comment on her death, but it is clear that she will be deeply missed by those who knew her personally and professionally.