Princess Eugenie of York is mourning the loss of her close friend, actress Michelle Trachtenberg, who tragically passed away at the age of 39. The news of Michelle’s death, which occurred in her New York City apartment on Wednesday, has sent shockwaves through her friends, family, and fans. Eugenie, who is the younger daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, took to Instagram to express her heartfelt grief. In a touching tribute, she wrote, “Goodbye special friend. You are so loved and missed. Thank you for so many memories of laughter and fun. You were so thoughtful and generous and soooo funny.” She also shared a fond memory of Michelle’s unique way of ordering food, recalling how she would do it with precision to ensure everyone got exactly what they wanted. Along with her emotional words, Eugenie posted a throwback photo of the two hugging and smiling together, showcasing their strong bond.
Michelle’s death has left many in the entertainment industry devastated. Best known for her roles in Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Michelle had built a reputation as a talented actress and a kind-hearted individual. Her passing was confirmed after her mother, Lana Trachtenberg, found her in her apartment. The cause of death was initially ruled as “undetermined” following objections from her family to an autopsy, as allowed by public health law when there is no suspicion of criminality or public health concern. The Office of Chief Medical Examiner in New York respected the family’s wishes, leaving many questions unanswered about the circumstances surrounding her death.
Eugenie’s tribute was just one of many heartfelt messages shared by Michelle’s friends and former co-stars. Blake Lively, who worked alongside Michelle on Gossip Girl, remembered her as “fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved.” Lively shared her own Instagram Story to honor Michelle, highlighting her strength and dedication to those close to her. Another touching tribute came from Sarah Michelle Gellar, Michelle’s on-screen sister from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Gellar shared a poignant statement referencing the show’s Season 5 finale, writing, “‘Michelle, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will always love you. The hardest thing in this world is to live in it. I will be brave. I will live… for you.’” This heartfelt message captured the deep connection the two actresses shared, both on and off screen.
Michelle faced her share of challenges in the years leading up to her death. Just over a year ago, she responded to cruel comments from social media users who criticized her appearance, suggesting she looked “sick.” Michelle stood up for herself, writing, “Explain to me how I look sick. Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14. I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.” Despite her strong response to these comments, Michelle had been dealing with serious health issues, including undergoing a liver transplant shortly before her passing. Her friend Amanda de Cadenet revealed that Michelle had been aware of the high possibility of death in the past six months. De Cadenet shared her own tribute to Michelle on Instagram, expressing her sorrow over the outcome and wishing her friend a peaceful transition. “I am only sorry that the outcome was not a better one,” she wrote. “Wishing you a peaceful transition sweet friend and may your spirit finally rest.”
Michelle’s untimely death has sparked an outpouring of love and remembrance from those who knew her. Her friends and colleagues have highlighted her kindness, sense of humor, and the joy she brought to those around her. For Princess Eugenie, Michelle was more than just a friend; she was someone who brought laughter and light into her life. Eugenie’s touching words and photo tribute are a testament to the deep bond the two shared, and her memories of Michelle’s sharp wit and generosity will undoubtedly remain with her forever. As the world continues to mourn the loss of this talented actress, the focus has turned to celebrating her legacy and the impact she had on those who knew her.
In the aftermath of Michelle’s passing, her friends and fans are finding solace in the memories she left behind. Her resilience in the face of adversity, her loyalty to her loved ones, and her ability to find humor in even the smallest moments are just a few of the qualities that made her so special. While her death leaves a void in the lives of those who cherished her, the stories, memories, and lessons she shared will continue to live on. Michelle Trachtenberg may be gone, but her spirit and the love she shared with others will never be forgotten. As Princess Eugenie so beautifully said, “I’m thinking of you up there friend, of your spirit that was so bright and your joy you brought so many.” Michelle’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and light, and it is this that will be remembered most.
