Michelle Trachtenberg, born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, was an American actress best known for her roles as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl. She passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 39.
According to CNN, her body was found in her Manhattan apartment, and while no foul play is suspected, an autopsy will determine the exact cause of death.
Trachtenberg began her acting career as a child, appearing in “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” and starring in “Harriet the Spy.” She gained further recognition with her role in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” from 2000 to 2003 and later portrayed Georgina Sparks on “Gossip Girl” from 2008 to 2012. Her film credits include “EuroTrip,” “17 Again,” and “Ice Princess.”
In early 2025, Trachtenberg underwent a liver transplant and may have been experiencing complications related to the procedure. Despite her health challenges, she remained active in her career, with her last onscreen appearance in the “Gossip Girl” reboot in 2023.
At the premiere of Lifetime’s “Sister Cities” at the Paramount Theatre in Hollywood on August 31, 2016, Michelle Trachtenberg appeared shorter than Jess Weixler, who stands at 5′ 7″, while Troian Bellisario, towering at 5′ 8½″, was the tallest of the trio (Credit: Joe Seer / Shutterstock)
Michelle Trachtenberg, Jess Weixler, and Troian Bellisario starred in the 2016 Lifetime movie “Sister Cities.” The film tells the story of four estranged sisters who reunite to mourn their mother’s death, only to discover a dark secret that could tear the family apart.
Michelle Trachtenberg: A Legacy in Film and Television
Trachtenberg, standing at 5 feet 6 inches (167.6 cm), was taller than the average American woman, though she once jokingly claimed on Instagram, “I took my heels off. I’m actually tall 5’8.” Her height and evolving style were often a topic of discussion, especially since she grew up in front of audiences.
Reflecting on the challenge of being a child star, she once said, “When you grow up on film, people sometimes have difficulties accepting the fact that you are growing up. They always imagine you younger.”
Her height and mature fashion choices, including sleek pumps and tailored looks, helped her transition from child roles into more sophisticated characters.
Beyond television, Michelle Trachtenberg’s presence is notable in films like “Eurotrip,” “17 Again,” and “Ice Princess.” Her sophisticated fashion sense mirrored the maturity that people often associated with her. As she put it, “Most people say they talk to me and I sound older.”
While shorter than Jess Weixler and Troian Bellisario, Michelle Trachtenberg was taller than American director Zelda Williams, believed to measure 5ft 3 (160 cm).
Michelle Trachtenberg, standing at 5ft 6, paired a flowing floral maxi dress with nude wedge sandals, while Zelda Williams, at 5ft 3, opted for a chic tweed mini dress and brown open-toe heels at the sixth-annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic at Will Rogers State Historic Park in Pacific Palisades, California, on October 17, 2015 (Credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock)
Stepping in Style: Michelle Trachtenberg’s Memorable Footwear Moments
Michelle Trachtenberg showcased a keen eye for fashion throughout her career, often elevating her ensembles with standout footwear choices such as Stuart Weitzman’s towering Nudist sandals. Here are some of her most memorable shoe moments:
- UGG x Jimmy Choo ‘Starlit’ Boots: While filming “Gossip Girl” in New York City, Michelle was spotted in fringed and studded chestnut Ugg boots, blending comfort with high-end fashion.
- B Brian Atwood ‘Fontanne’ Pumps: On the same “Gossip Girl” set, she switched into striking purple suede pumps featuring a scaly snake print accent. The pumps, priced at $350, showcased her ability to mix luxury with accessibility.
- Coach ‘Steffi’ Sandals: During a casual outing in Beverly Hills, Michelle donned a chic gray ensemble complemented by Coach ‘Steffi’ sandals. These natural and silver sandals featured intricately woven wide straps and metallic accents, adding a touch of elegance to her look.
- Yellow Slingback Pumps: In a “Gossip Girl” scene, Michelle’s character, Georgina Sparks, wore unidentified yellow platform slingback pumps paired with patterned leggings and a sequined top, reflecting her edgy and bold fashion sense.
- Angel Jackson ‘Lakota’ Feather Bag: While not footwear, Michelle’s choice of the Angel Jackson ‘Lakota’ feather bag during a “Gossip Girl” shoot demonstrated her flair for unique and statement-making accessories.
Michelle Trachtenberg’s fashion choices, particularly her footwear, consistently highlighted her sophisticated and adventurous style, leaving a lasting impression in the world of fashion.
Before we dive into Michelle Trachtenberg’s unexpected footwear price comparisons, it’s worth noting how effortlessly she balanced style and comfort. Whether on-screen or off, she had a knack for pairing high-fashion pieces with more relaxed, everyday essentials—proving that even the most laid-back looks can make a statement.
Michelle Trachtenberg’s Casual Ugg Boots Are More Expensive Than Her Killer Heels
Michelle prioritized comfort, opting for fringed and studded Ugg boots on the set of “Gossip Girl” in New York City on March 28, 2012 (Credit: Ivan Nikolov / WENN)
Of Jewish descent, in March 2012, Michelle Trachtenberg was seen filming upcoming episodes for “Gossip Girl” in New York City.
The American actress wore studded and fringed chestnut Ugg boots while milling around the set and then slipped into purple pumps just before the cameras started rolling.
Michelle Trachtenberg switched to a pair of striking purple suede pumps to film a scene for “Gossip Girl” in New York City on March 28, 2012 (Credit: Ivan Nikolov / WENN)
At Your Next Shoes, we’ve always recognized the transformative power of footwear.
Many are surprised to learn that Michelle Trachtenberg’s “casual Ugg boots” cost more than her elegant heels. Specifically, her UGG x Jimmy Choo ‘Starlit’ boots retail for $595, whereas the B Brian Atwood ‘Fontanne’ pumps are a more affordable $350.
This is a perfect example of how looks can be deceiving and how more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean more beautiful.
Michelle Trachtenberg is wearing this purple color of the B Brian Atwood ‘Fontanne’ pumps:
B Brian Atwood ‘Fontanne’ Suede and Snake Print Platform Pumps in Purple, $350.00
A scaly snake print accents its suede upper. It also covers the entire heel and bottom sole:
B Brian Atwood ‘Fontanne’ Suede and Snake Print Platform Pumps in Turquoise
Thanks to Louboutin, designers have started paying attention to shoe bottoms!