Former child actress Michelle Trachtenberg was best known for her portrayal of Dawn Summers on the hit television show "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."

However, fans of the beloved Hollywood figure were left heartbroken earlier this week after learning that she had passed away at just 39 years of age. 

Trachtenberg may have had complications from a recent liver transplant

According to ABC News, law enforcement sources confirmed that Trachtenberg's mother discovered her at around 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning.

The actress' body was in her New York City located near Columbus Circle and showed no signs of foul play, with death apparently being due to natural causes. An autopsy is expected to reveal more information.

BREAKING: Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in “Harriet the Spy” and “Gossip Girl,” has died. She was 39. Trachtenberg is believed to have died of natural causes, police sources told ABC News. https://t.co/VnU47vlaJZ

— ABC News (@ABC) February 26, 2025

ABC News pointed out that Trachtenberg had been beset with health problems in recent years and may have experienced complications from a liver transplant.

Young actress rose to fame on television and in movies

The network recalled how Trachtenberg first gained prominence three decades by appearing in the television series "The Adventure of Pete & Pete" as well as the 1996 film "Harriet the Spy."

Trachtenberg joined the cast of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" in 2000, acting alongside star Sarah Michelle Geller, who played the show's titular character.

She later portrayed villain Georgina Sparks on "Gossip Girl" from 2008 to 2012, an experience she spoke about during an interview with Seventeen magazine.

"It's kind of easy to be evil when you're saying evil things," Trachtenberg was quoted as saying. "It's definitely a lot more fun than playing the good girl."

"I love the reaction you get," she continued before adding, "I never understood why some actors don't want to play villains or evil characters."

Fellow actor recalls Trachtenberg as being " just like a beam of light"

Entertainment Weekly reported that news of Trachtenberg's passing was met with tributes from her former co-stars, including actor Nicholas Brendon.

Brendon, who played Xander Harris on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" described his younger colleague as being "just like a beam of light."

"I think it was just the last thing I expected, not that I was expecting anyone to die. But I really am sorry to her family," Brendon added in an emotional video posted to social media.