Hollywood is in shock as fans and film lovers mourn the tragic loss of Michelle Trachtenberg, who was found dead in her New York City apartment near Columbus Circle on Wednesday morning.

Now, startling new reports are emerging about the actress’ final days — revealing details few saw coming

Her mother made the discovery

On Wednesday, the world was hit with heartbreaking news—actress Michelle Trachtenberg, 39, best known for her role in Gossip Girl, was found lifeless in her bed.

Her mother, Lana, arrived at her daughter’s Manhattan apartment early Wednesday morning, unaware that she was about to face every parent’s worst nightmare

According to police sources speaking to ABC News, she reportedly passed away from natural causes and may have suffered complications following a liver transplant. Sources told TMZ that the actress had been struggling with alcohol-related issues, and according to People, she had recently undergone a liver transplant.

According to the latest reports, Michelle Trachtenberg had been ”struggling” and was ”really sick” before her sudden passing at 39. A source told People that the actress had confided in friends about her struggles and was ”really down emotionally” in the year leading up to her death.

“She was really, really sick and open with those in her circle about how much she was struggling,” the insider revealed, adding that she appeared “pale, gaunt,” and “very thin.”

”Couldn’t walk down the stairs”

A restaurant worker who spoke with DailyMail.com revealed that Michelle Trachtenberg appeared so unwell during her final public outing that she could barely make it down a flight of stairs.

The Gossip Girl star was seen at Sartiano’s restaurant in SoHo, New York, on Thursday, February 20—just days before she was tragically found dead in her Manhattan apartment by her mother.

“She looked really unwell, just like very sickly,” the worker, who wished to remain anonymous, shared. “She was thin, like tiny, she couldn’t walk down the stairs. She was not in a great mood, it wasn’t the best impression.”

Reflecting on the eerie timing, they added, “It’s spooky because she was in here just last week on Thursday night. We only just found out about [her death] a few hours ago, and it’s really sad. She was just with one other person, a woman who was really nice.”

Loving tribute

Restaurant owner Scott Sartiano shared a heartfelt tribute to Michelle Trachtenberg on Wednesday evening, just days after she was last spotted at his popular downtown venue.

Reflecting on their years of friendship, Sartiano posted a photo of himself with the late actress, captioning it with a touching message: “Many years of happy memories. Rest in peace, Michelle.” He added a broken heart emoji, a simple yet powerful symbol of the sorrow felt by those who knew her.

Authorities have confirmed that criminality is not suspected in Michelle Trachtenberg’s passing. “The Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing,” officials stated.

While Michelle Trachtenberg never openly spoke about any health issues, she addressed speculation about her well-being in January, responding to Instagram commenters who questioned her appearance.

The actress addressed speculation about her noticeably thin appearance, shutting down rumors on Instagram. She denied undergoing any cosmetic procedures and reassured fans that she was “happy and healthy.”

Final post on social media

However, Trachtenberg’s final Instagram post — shared earlier this month — painted a different picture. In the selfie, she appeared frail, standing in front of a hedge, a stark contrast to the vibrant presence fans remembered.

Reports suggest that she had recently undergone a liver transplant, a procedure sometimes required for those battling alcohol-related liver damage.

While recipients of the surgery are required to abstain from drinking, even those who follow medical advice can face life-threatening complications. Transplant patients must take immunosuppressants daily to prevent organ rejection—a delicate balance that can still lead to severe health risks.

Trachtenberg, best known for her role as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl (2008–2012), and Dawn Summers on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, was remembered fondly by her co-stars. Blake Lively, who worked alongside her on the hit series, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram Stories, calling her “fiercely loyal, kind, and deeply sensitive.”

Her sudden death has left fans and Hollywood in mourning, as those who knew her best continue to share memories of the woman behind the iconic roles.