The entertainment world is mourning the loss of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, who passed away at age 39 in her Manhattan apartment. Her former Buffy the Vampire Slayer castmates have shared heartfelt tributes remembering the actress who portrayed Dawn Summers on the beloved series.
James Marsters, who played Spike on the show, expressed his grief in a statement to PEOPLE: "My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny and a very talented person."
David Boreanaz, known for his role as Angel, was among the first to react, writing "So very sad...horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family."
Alyson Hannigan, who starred as Willow Rosenberg, shared photos with Trachtenberg on Instagram, noting how she "brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy."
Emma Caulfield, who portrayed Anya Jenkins, posted: "I'm so sorry your bright light died so young. Our Buffy family lost a little sister today... Rest in peace lovely Mish Mish. You were loved."
Kristine Sutherland, who played Joyce Summers, remembered how Trachtenberg "brought joy and innocence along with her talent" when joining the cast.
The NYPD confirmed Trachtenberg was found unresponsive in her apartment on Wednesday morning. Police stated no criminality is suspected, with the Medical Examiner set to determine the cause of death.
Trachtenberg joined Buffy in season 5 as Dawn Summers, the mystically-created sister of Sarah Michelle Gellar's titular character. She remained with the show until its conclusion in 2003.
Beyond Buffy, Trachtenberg was known for roles in Gossip Girl, Harriet the Spy, and Ice Princess. Her final performance was reprising her role as Georgina Sparks in the 2023 Gossip Girl reboot.