Penn Badgley, Co-Stars Mourn Michelle Trachtenberg

Penn Badgley has publicly mourned the death of his former Gossip Girl co-star Michelle Trachtenberg, describing her passing as 'surreal' and 'really saddening.' Trachtenberg, who played Georgina Sparks, died at age 39 from complications of diabetes mellitus, with the New York City medical examiner ruling her death as natural. Badgley remembered her for her 'childlike, joyous laugh' and 'pure heart,' acknowledging they had not seen each other in over a decade. Trachtenberg reportedly underwent a liver transplant and struggled with health issues prior to her death, which her family was aware of. Tributes from co-stars such as Blake Lively highlighted her vibrant presence and dedication. Trachtenberg's career began with childhood commercials and included notable roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ice Princess, and Gossip Girl.