The cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer is paying tribute to their costar and friend Michelle Trachtenberg.
After news broke on Wednesday, February 26, that the actress was found unconscious inside her New York City apartment at the age of 39, many colleagues were quick to share their favorite memories working alongside Trachtenberg.
“My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul,” James Marsters, who played Spike, wrote via Instagram. “Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny and a very talented person. She died much too young, and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her. … Godspeed Michelle. You are missed.”
Between 2000 and 2003, Trachtenberg had the opportunity to play Dawn Summers — Buffy’s sister — on the hit series. Once the show wrapped, the actress went on to star in various projects, including Gossip Girl and Six Feet Under.
Stars React to Michelle Trachtenberg’s Death at Age 39
“Michelle touched a generation of television fans throughout her career, including in her unforgettable role as the independent and strong-willed Dawn Summers in Buffy,” a rep for 20th Television, the studio behind the series, said in a statement to TVLine. “She brought depth, heart, and authenticity to every performance and will be remembered for her remarkable talent. Our sincere condolences go out to her family and friends — she will be deeply missed.”
As friends and costars continue paying tribute to Trachtenberg online, keep reading to see the heartfelt posts from the Buffy family:
James Marsters
“My heart goes out to her family who are good people, and are suffering the greatest loss anyone could bear,” the actor wrote via Instagram. “I hope everyone can give them space to heal in this most difficult time.”
David Boreanaz
“So very sad…horrible news,” the actor, who played Angel, wrote via his Instagram Story. “RIP and prayers to her and her family.”
Emma Caulfield
“I’m so sorry your bright light died so young,” the Anya actress shared via her Instagram Story. “Our Buffy family lost a little sister today…Rest in peace lovely Mish Mish. You were loved.”
Alyson Hannigan
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing,” Hannigan, who starred as Willow Rosenberg, shared with her Instagram followers. “She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends.”
Clare Kramer
“Peace out little one.
,” the actress, who played Glory on Buffy, wrote via Instagram. “A talented & kind soul gone way too soon!
You’re free to fly now… 
.”
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Amy Acker
Although Trachtenberg never appeared on the Buffy the Vampire Slayer spinoff Angel, several stars from the show also paid tribute to the late actress on social media. “Sending love to Michelle’s family and friends,” Acker, who portrayed Fred, wrote via her Instagram Story.
J. August Richards
“Just heard about the passing of Michelle Trachtenberg… So young,” the Angel star, who played Gunn, wrote via Instagram. “My heart goes out to her family and loved ones. What a beautiful spirit who left an amazing legacy… Rest In Peace, dear one…
”
Bianca Lawson
“It’s incredibly sad. She was young,” Lawson told Us Weekly exclusively at the 18th Annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards on February 27. “I didn’t know her well, but that’s always really a sad thing.”
