Penn Badgley Reflects on the Untimely Passing of Gossip Girl Costar Michelle Trachtenberg: ‘Surreal’
Penn Badgley is cherishing the memories of his dear friend and Michelle Trachtenberg, following her shocking death at the tender age of 39.
The You star shared an emotional tribute while walking the red carpet for the premiere of the fifth season of his Netflix thriller series. His heartfelt reminiscences paint a picture of a vibrant soul who brought joy and laughter to all around her.
“What I remember of her is she was incredibly quick to laugh,” Badgley conveyed to E! News. He continued, highlighting her “childlike, joyous laugh” which resonated with everyone she encountered. “She had this childlike, joyous laugh.”
Tragically, Trachtenberg’s passing was ruled as natural by The New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, attributed to complications from diabetes mellitus. The news sent shockwaves through Hollywood, leaving many in disbelief. Badgley confessed that despite not seeing the actress in over a decade, her absence feels profoundly “surreal.”
“Really surreal, really saddening,” he stated, emphasizing her “really pure heart.” His words echo the sentiments of countless fans and friends mourning the loss of a talented and spirited individual.
Celebrities have commenced a wave of tributes to Trachtenberg soon after her passing was announced, and it’s clear that her impact was far-reaching. Blake Lively, who shared the screen with Trachtenberg on Gossip Girl, took to Instagram to commemorate their early days together.
In her heartfelt post, Lively described Trachtenberg as “electricity,” a testament to her vivacious spirit. “Everything she did, she did 200%,” she shared, reflecting on the late actress’s passionate approach to work and life. “She laughed the fullest at someone’s joke, she faced authority head on when she felt something was wrong, and she cared deeply about her work.” The emotional tribute continued as Lively urged everyone to “hold their loved ones close,” reiterating the fragile nature of life.
As tributes came flooding in, Lively poignantly remarked, “The real tragedies in life are the ones that blindside you on an idle Tuesday,” reminding us all to cherish every moment. Such reflections serve as a reminder of the joy and vibrancy that Trachtenberg brought into the lives of those who crossed her path, as well as the heartbreak felt by many over her untimely departure.
