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Michelle Trachtenberg‘s last months are again in the news, thanks to the latest claims from someone who knew her well.

The actress’ health and struggles have come to light again, providing a heart-wrenching look at her life right before her passing. The revelations have also turned up new questions about what some people close to her saw behind the scenes.

As new accounts continue to emerge more than a year later, Michelle Trachtenberg’s final chapter is being revisited through the eyes of those who worked alongside and cared about the beloved actress.

Rosie O’Donnell Makes Heartbreaking Claims About Michelle Trachtenberg

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Rosie O’Donnell is releasing more information regarding the last few years of Trachtenberg’s life as she alleges she was addicted to drugs prior to her passing in February 2025.

The comedian, who played alongside Trachtenberg in 1996’s “Harriet the Spy,” said it was both upsetting and shocking to see her former co-star go downhill.

According to O’Donnell, the actress eventually became difficult to reach as she battled personal struggles. In her words, “She got into drugs and alcohol, I believe, and then I lost touch with her.”

The television host claimed Trachtenberg missed several planned meetups and said she ultimately lost touch with the late actress after believing drugs and alcohol had become part of her life.

The emotional recollection came during a recent interview. O’Donnell described Trachtenberg’s death to Variety as “a tragedy” and said addiction should never be underestimated, adding that she wished she could have done more to help someone she cared deeply about.

The Actress Became Increasingly Difficult To Reach

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O’Donnell said one of the hardest parts of watching Trachtenberg struggle was seeing the actress gradually become unreachable. Although the pair had remained in contact over the years, the comedian recalled that several plans to meet never came together as the late star withdrew from those closest to her.

The television host said Trachtenberg would occasionally call, prompting her to check in on the actress’ well-being. O’Donnell also reached out to Trachtenberg’s mother, Lana, to better understand what was happening, saying she learned the struggles had been ongoing for some time.

Even in the difficult times, O’Donnell recalled Trachtenberg as “a person that was very loved by her family, particularly her mother and sister. In retrospect, the comedian said she would like to have done more before the actress’s premature passing.

Michelle Trachtenberg’s Death Prompted Emotional Tributes

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Trachtenberg’s sudden death at age 39 sparked an outpouring of grief from friends and former co-stars, many of whom reflected on the actress’s kindness and the lasting impression she left throughout her career.

The loss came after emergency responders found the actress unresponsive at her New York City apartment on February 26, 2025. Rosie O’Donnell shared one of the most emotional tributes, saying she loved Trachtenberg deeply and wished she had been able to help during the actress’s difficult final years.

“Harriet the Spy” co-star J. Smith-Cameron also remembered Trachtenberg as a bright, enthusiastic young performer whose warmth remained unchanged when they later reconnected. The Blast reported that Cameron said the news left her shocked and deeply saddened.

Authorities later confirmed that no foul play was suspected in Trachtenberg’s death. The actress was remembered not only for her memorable roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” but also for the impact she had on those who knew and worked with her.

Final Creative Project Offered Hope Before Tragedy

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Before her unexpected death, Trachtenberg was reportedly working toward a new chapter behind the camera. The actress had written a screenplay titled “Toy Monster” and was actively trying to secure studio backing, signaling a shift from acting to screenwriting after years in the spotlight.

Director and producer Casey Tebo praised the script as one of the best he had read. They said the pair had recently attracted interest from a financing studio after earlier setbacks delayed the project.

Although development was paused following the actress’s death, Tebo said he remains committed to bringing the film to life as a way of honoring her vision.

The project offered a glimpse of a different creative path Trachtenberg hoped to pursue, with those closest to the production believing it could have introduced audiences to another side of the actress’s talent.

Michelle Trachtenberg’s Boyfriend Shared An Emotional Tribute

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Months after her death, Trachtenberg’s longtime boyfriend, Jay Cohen, finally came forward to express his appreciation for fans’ love for the late actress. The producer requested an opportunity to speak publicly and asked people to be more empathetic and compassionate with others.

Cohen also reflected on his own journey as a kidney transplant recipient, using the moment to express gratitude for the medical professionals who helped save his life. He urged people to care for one another and promote peace, while thanking supporters for helping him navigate his grief.

The Blast reported that the heartfelt message marked his first public comments about Trachtenberg since her death. Although those closest to the actress continue to mourn her loss, her legacy lives on through the memorable roles she brought to life and the lives she touched both on and off screen.

Rest in peace, Michelle Trachtenberg!

The Michelle Trachtenberg’s Dark Final Days Of ‘Drugs And Alcohol’ Revealed first appeared on The Blast