Penn Badgley Remembers Gossip Girl Co-Star Michelle Trachtenberg’s Joyous Heart

Previously known for his portrayal of Dan Humphrey on the teen drama “Gossip Girl”, Penn Badgley later took on the role of Joe Goldberg in the psychological thriller. Unlike Badgley who was a constant figure throughout the series, Michelle Trachtenberg appeared as Georgina Sparks in 28 episodes as a recurring character during the show’s run. At the red carpet premiere of the fifth and final season of “You” on Netflix, Badgley reminisced about Trachtenberg.

Trachtenberg, who had previously acted in various productions, was discovered unconscious in her New York flat by her mother on February 26th. Unfortunately, she passed away at this location. She was only 39 years old, and the cause of death is believed to be related to complications arising from diabetes mellitus.

A ‘Childlike, Joyous Laugh”

In regards to Trachtenberg, Badgley recalled that she had a contagious laughter, full of joy. She had her moments of struggle, like everyone else, but her laughter was something special – it was mature yet childlike and filled with pure happiness.

As a movie enthusiast, I haven’t caught a film by Trachtenberg in over a decade, yet I can attest to the sincerity of her heart. Her passing is truly unbelievable, almost dreamlike – incredibly surreal and deeply saddening.

Trachtenberg Passed Away in February

The surprising news about Trachtenberg’s demise emerged, and it seems that the actress underwent a liver transplant just a few months prior to her passing. Trachtenberg gained significant fame on Nickelodeon’s show “The Adventures of Pete & Pete ” and portrayed the lead character in the Nickelodeon movie “Harriet the Spy ” alongside Rosie O’Donnell. Later, she starred as Buffy Summers’ sister, Dawn, in the latter seasons of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer“.

Apart from Trachtenberg’s appearances in the movies “Eurotrip,” “17 Again,” and “Cop Out,” she also lent her voice to the 2023 animated reboot of “Harriet the Spy.” Most recently, she had intended to make a rare public appearance at a March 12 screening of “Spyral,” her final film, but unfortunately passed away before this event took place.

Gossip Girl (Streaming on Max)

Rotten Tomatoes Critic ScoreRotten Tomatoes Audience ScoreIMDb Rating
84%80%7.5/10

Gossip Girl Alums Remember Trachtenberg

hearing about Michelle’s passing, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible impact she had during her time on set. The moment she first stepped onto the stage, she seized it like no one else. She was an unstoppable force of nature, effortlessly funny and magnetic. Thinking back to those years together brings a big smile to my face. It’s truly heartbreaking to see her go. My thoughts are with her family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Michelle, you will be deeply missed. ❤️

Moreover, she affectionately recalled her co-star on Instagram, posting a picture with the caption that Trachtenberg “was a spark.” She went on, “When she walked into a room, you could feel it because the atmosphere shifted.” Everything she did, she did wholeheartedly. She laughed heartily at jokes, stood up to authority when she felt something was amiss, cared passionately about her work, took pride in being part of this community and industry, despite its challenges, and above all, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and courageous for those she cherished, standing tall and unique in every way.

Badgley’s You is streaming on Netflix. Gossip Girl is streaming on Max.

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2025-04-27 01:06