Michelle Trachtenberg's Cause of Death Confirmed as Diabetes Complications

Weeks after her unexpected passing, the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner has officially determined Michelle Trachtenberg's cause of death.

In a statement, the medical examiner confirmed that Trachtenberg died of natural causes stemming from complications related to diabetes mellitus. The clarification came following a thorough review of laboratory results conducted in lieu of an autopsy.

Trachtenberg, 39, was discovered unresponsive in her midtown Manhattan apartment on February 26. Emergency responders arrived at the scene but were unable to revive her. She was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Authorities reported no signs of foul play, and no criminal activity was suspected in connection with her death.

Initially, the medical examiner's office indicated that the cause of death would remain pending due to the family's request not to perform an autopsy, citing religious reasons. According to protocol, an autopsy is not typically conducted unless there is evidence of suspicious or criminal circumstances, which were not present in this case. The office honored the family's wishes but was able to later confirm the cause of death based on lab findings.

A gifted actress with a career that spanned over three decades, Trachtenberg made her television debut at the age of three, appearing in commercials before securing a recurring role as Lily Montgomery on the popular daytime soap "All My Children". She quickly became a household name in the 1990s after starring in Nickelodeon's quirky and beloved series "The Adventures of Pete & Pete". Her performance earned her critical acclaim and paved the way for more substantial roles. In 1996, Trachtenberg captured hearts as the lead character in "Harriet the Spy", bringing to life the iconic literary heroine with charm and curiosity. Her portrayal of the inquisitive young writer earned her widespread recognition and solidified her place as one of the most promising child actors of her generation.

She continued to build a diverse and dynamic career into adulthood. In 2000, Trachtenberg joined the cast of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" during the show's fifth season, portraying Dawn Summers, the mystical younger sister of Buffy, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar. The role introduced her to a new generation of fans and remains one of her most memorable performances.

She went on to star in the cult classic teen comedy "EuroTrip" (2004), the Disney figure skating drama "Ice Princess", and the ensemble comedy "17 Again", alongside Zac Efron and Matthew Perry. In 2008, she took on the role of Georgina Sparks in "Gossip Girl", the unpredictable and deliciously manipulative character who frequently turned the lives of Manhattan's elite upside down. 

Trachtenberg continued working steadily throughout the 2010s and into the 2020s, with appearances in series such as "Weeds", "House", "NCIS: Los Angeles", and "Sleepy Hollow". She also lent her voice to the animated series "Robot Chicken" and, most recently, she made a nostalgic return to the "Gossip Girl" universe in the 2023 reboot on Max.