Michelle Trachtenberg was candid about her health in the months leading up to her untimely death. Those close to the "Gossip Girl" star have shared that she was deeply concerned about her well-being and openly discussed her struggles.
On the morning of February 26, 2025, Trachtenberg was found unresponsive in her New York City apartment at One Columbus Place, a luxury residence near Central Park South. Law enforcement officials confirmed that paramedics were called for a cardiac arrest emergency, but by the time they arrived, she had already passed away.
Health Issues Leading Up to Her Passing
Instagram | michelletrachtenberg | Reports suggest Michelle Trachtenberg's recent liver transplant may have failed, contributing to her death.
Reports indicate that Michelle Trachtenberg underwent a liver transplant just months before her death. Medical experts speculate that her body may have rejected the transplant, leading to severe complications.
Friends described her emotional state as troubled during this period. She was reportedly feeling overwhelmed by her condition and frequently expressed concerns about her health. A close friend shared that she was "really struggling" and "not in a good place emotionally" after the surgery.
Open About Her Health Challenges
Michelle Trachtenberg never shied away from discussing her health. She addressed speculation about her appearance on social media, responding to comments questioning if she was unwell. In response to one post, she firmly denied being sick, explaining that changes in her looks were simply due to aging.
"How do I look sick?" she replied to a concerned fan. "I’m not 14 anymore. I’m 38. It’s unfortunate you would say something like that."
Her transparency about her health, both with close friends and in public, highlights how much she wanted to be understood during her struggles.
A Friend’s Emotional Tribute
Instagram | pagesix | Amanda de Cadenet mourned Trachtenberg's passing, recalling a recent, humor-filled FaceTime despite her health struggles.
Amanda de Cadenet, a close friend of Trachtenberg, shared a heartfelt message following the tragic news. In a since-deleted post, she reflected on their recent interactions, mentioning a FaceTime call where Trachtenberg’s humor and warmth still shone through despite her health challenges.
"Michelle, my dear. It’s heartbreaking to wake up to this news. It feels wrong to even write this, but I want to acknowledge your passing because you meant something to me," she wrote.
She continued, "I remember you as the vibrant, young woman in this photo. And even though your face looked different when we last spoke, your kindness and humor were still there."
In a deeply personal moment, she also revealed that Trachtenberg had acknowledged the possibility that her health struggles could take a fatal turn. "You knew there was a real chance this could happen. I just wish things had turned out differently. Wishing you peace now."
The Unanswered Questions Surrounding Her Passing
While initial reports suggest complications from her liver transplant, Trachtenberg’s official cause of death remains unknown pending further medical examination. Her family has not publicly addressed the findings yet, but those who knew her remain devastated by the loss.
Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing has left fans and loved ones mourning a talented actress whose struggles were more significant than many realized. Her openness about her challenges serves as a reminder of how important it is to support those facing health battles, even when they appear strong on the outside.