
Buffy the Vampire Slayer Stars Pay Tribute to Michelle Trachtenberg: ‘You Will Be Missed’
The cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer is honoring their co-star and friend Michelle Trachtenberg.
Following the announcement on Wednesday, February 26, that she was discovered unconscious in her New York City apartment at the age of 39, numerous colleagues reminisced about their cherished experiences with Trachtenberg.
“My heart is heavy today. We have lost a wonderful soul,” James Marsters, who portrayed Spike, expressed on Instagram. “Michelle was incredibly intelligent, hilariously funny, and immensely talented. Her life was cut far too short and she leaves behind many who loved her. … Godspeed Michelle. You are missed.”
From 2000 to 2003, Trachtenberg played Dawn Summers — Buffy’s sister — on the popular show. After the series concluded, she went on to feature in various productions, including Gossip Girl and Six Feet Under.
“Michelle inspired a generation of TV viewers during her career, not least through her iconic portrayal of the independent and strong-willed Dawn Summers on Buffy,” a representative for 20th Television, the studio behind the show, mentioned in a statement to TVLine. “She infused depth, heart, and authenticity into every performance and will be remembered for her extraordinary talent. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends — she will be profoundly missed.”
As friends and fellow cast members continue to honor Trachtenberg online, follow along to see the touching tributes from the Buffy family:
James Marsters

“My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, who are wonderful people facing the most significant loss anyone can endure,” the actor shared on Instagram. “I hope we can give them the privacy they need during this hard time.”
David Boreanaz
“So incredibly sad… this is terrible news,” the actor who played Angel expressed via his Instagram Story. “Rest in peace and prayers for her and her family.”
Emma Caulfield
“I’m deeply sorry that your bright light was extinguished so early,” shared the Anya actress on her Instagram Story. “Our Buffy family lost a little sister today… Rest in peace, dear Mish Mish. You were cherished.”

Alyson Hannigan
“I am profoundly saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing,” Hannigan, who played Willow Rosenberg, told her Instagram followers. “She brought such a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s loved ones.”
Clare Kramer
“Goodbye little one.✌️🧿⚡️💔 ,” the actress, who portrayed Glory in Buffy, shared on Instagram. “A talented & kind individual gone far too soon!💧Now you’re free to soar… 🕊️.”
Amy Acker
Although Trachtenberg never appeared in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer spinoff Angel, many stars from that show also expressed their condolences on social media. “Sending love to Michelle’s family and friends,” Acker, who played Fred, said via her Instagram Story.
J. August Richards
“Just learned about Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing… So young,” wrote the Angel star, who played Gunn, on Instagram. “My heart goes out to her family and loved ones. Such a beautiful soul who left an incredible legacy… Rest in peace, dear one…❤️🙏🏾”