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Hollywood is mourning the untimely passing of Michelle Trachtenberg, the actress best known for her roles in Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The 39-year-old actress was confirmed dead, and authorities have stated that her death is not being treated as suspicious.
Among those deeply affected by her loss is Mara Wilson, the Matilda actress and Trachtenberg’s childhood friend, who has now opened up about their shared struggles with bullying and the profound impact Michelle had on her life.
Mara Wilson Reveals Michelle Trachtenberg Was Bullied in School
In a deeply personal essay, Mara Wilson reflected on their childhood together, revealing that Michelle was a victim of relentless bullying during their middle school years in Burbank, California.
Wilson recalled how students unfairly perceived Trachtenberg as “mean”, leading to years of mistreatment:
"They call me Harriet the S–t, Harriet the Bitch, Harriet the Bitchy Spy … and so much worse. They never stop. She was very perfectly composed and confident. I had never seen her cry before that conversation. It wasn’t just that she was being bullied; it was that there wasn’t any way she could get them not to hate her."
Despite being in the spotlight as a child star, Trachtenberg faced immense struggles behind the scenes—a reality that many never knew.
Mara Wilson on Michelle's Death: "I Thought I Might Pass Out"
Wilson also shared her shock and devastation upon hearing of Michelle’s passing, describing the moment as surreal and heartbreaking:
"I was packing for a work trip. I looked at my phone and felt my stomach drop. My hands were shaking and my knees went weak — I thought I might pass out. This wasn’t supposed to happen. She was too young. She’d worked too hard. I always thought I would get the chance to see her again, to tell her how much I’d always looked up to her. To tell her the times we spent together as children were some of the best of my life."
Her words reflect the deep bond and admiration she had for Trachtenberg, as well as the pain of losing someone so unexpectedly.
Michelle Trachtenberg's Past Allegations Against Joss Whedon
For those unfamiliar, Michelle Trachtenberg had spoken out in 2021 against Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon, accusing him of physically abusive behavior on set. She revealed that there was even a rule preventing Whedon from being alone with her while filming.
Additionally, Trachtenberg had openly spoken about her struggles with childhood trauma, hinting at the difficulties she faced both in and out of the entertainment industry.
A Legacy Remembered
Michelle Trachtenberg’s untimely passing has left a void in the industry, and her fans, co-stars, and loved ones continue to remember her for her talent, strength, and perseverance.
Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges child stars face and the hidden battles that many endure behind the cameras.
