Michelle Trachtenberg’s death at just 39 years old has shocked both her fans and former collaborators. But those who encountered her in her final days say the signs were there that something was very wrong.
According to insiders, the actor, known for roles in Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer did not appear to be in good health during one of her last nights out on the town in New York City, Page Six reported.
Trachtenberg, who was found dead in her home on Wednesday, was out with friends last Thursday night, dining at an Italian eatery called Sartiano.
Fellow diners, who spotted the actress at the popular Soho restaurant just six days before she died, say they were “worried” about Trachtenberg, claiming she seemed “in very bad shape.”
An employee even claimed that Trachtenberg’s “frail” state shocked many restaurant goers, adding that she seemed to struggle to “walk down the stairs,” The Daily Mail reported.
After Trachtenberg’s tragic death, Sartiano’s owner Scott Sartiano shared a photo of the two of them dining together on Instagram later Wednesday, writing: “Many years of happy memories. Rest in peace Michelle 💔.”
Trachtenberg’s mother last saw her daughter only 10 hours before she found her dead in her Columbus Circle home at approximately 8 a.m. ET, TMZ reported.
The New York Police Department confirmed that the actress was “unconscious and unresponsive” when first responders arrived, before pronouncing her dead at the scene.
Although the actress had experienced health concerns after a liver transplant last year, sources told the New York Post that she maintained a relatively healthy life. The official cause of death is yet to be disclosed, but no foul play is suspected.
The actor sparked widespread concern amongst her fan base when she shared a picture where she appeared like skin and bones following her surgery. Her 800,000 plus Instagram followers swooped into the comments section filling it with speculation about her health or possible plastic surgery.
The former child star slammed internet trolls who took their speculations too far, replying: “Explain to me how I look sick.” She added, “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14. I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”
She would later post another picture of herself and write: “I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery I am happy and healthy. Check yourself haters.”
