Buffy The Vampire Slayer Cast Reacts To Michelle Trachtenberg's Heartbreaking Death
The sudden passing of actor Michelle Trachtenberg at the age of 39 has occasioned a flood of heartfelt remembrances from fans, friends, and former co-stars. Trachtenberg first won the hearts of television viewers as Nona F. Mecklenberg on the Nickelodeon series "The Adventures of Pete & Pete" before hitting the big screen as the intrepid Harriet M. Welsch in Bronwen Hughes' underrated family film "Harriet the Spy." She then found widespread fame as Buffy Summers' kid sister Dawn in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." Though initially dismissed by some as a Cousin Oliver-esque addition to a series struggling to remain relevant, Trachtenberg won everyone over through the sheer force of her preternatural pluck and formidable acting chops.
Trachtenberg's death was just announced earlier today, so tributes are still coming in from those who had the great pleasure of working alongside her. Here's how her "Buffy" family has memorialized her thus far.
The Buffy family mourns the loss of their kid sister
David Boreanaz, the "Bones" star who rose to fame as Buffy's vampire boyfriend Angel on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and his own spinoff series "Angel," posted on his Instagram Story, "So very sad... horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family."
James Marsters, who rose to fame as the vampire Spike on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Angel," released a statement to People Magazine that reads as follows:
"My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny and a very talented person. She died much too young, and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her. My heart goes out to her family, who are good people and are suffering the greatest loss anyone could bear. I hope everyone can give them space to heal in this most difficult time. Godspeed Michelle. You are missed."
Emma Caulfield, who portrayed the recovering vengeance demon Anya Jenkins on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," wrote on her Instagram Stories, "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."
20th Television issued the following statement to People:
"Michelle touched a generation of television fans throughout her career, including in her unforgettable role as the independent and strong-willed Dawn Summers in Buffy. She brought depth, heart, and authenticity to every performance and will be remembered for her remarkable talent. Our sincere condolences go out to her family and friends – she will be deeply missed."
"I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle's passing," Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow, wrote on Instagram. "She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle's family and friends."
We expect there will be more remembrances forthcoming, and will share them here at /Film as they come in.