Michelle Trachtenberg’s cause of death was ruled “undetermined” after her family objected to an autopsy, Page Six can confirm.
“Under public health law, families may object to autopsy based on religious belief, and provided there is no suspicion of criminality or compelling public health reason to proceed with autopsy, the medical examiner honors the objection,” a rep for the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in New York told us.
While the city medical examiner’s office conducted an external examination on the beloved actress, who starred in 1996’s “Harriet the Spy,” it’s unlikely any further testing will be done.
Both the cause and manner of her death will be listed as “undetermined” on her death certificate.
Trachtenberg was found dead in her New York City apartment at One Columbus Place in Columbus Circle around 8 a.m. on Feb. 26 after going into cardiac arrest, sources previously told The Post. She was 39.
We were told at the time that the actress’ mother, Lana Trachtenberg, was who discovered the body.
The New York Police Department said Michelle was “unconscious and unresponsive” when officers and paramedics arrived. She was pronounced dead on the scene.
Police did not investigate Michelle’s death as suspicious, according to sources. It appears the “Gossip Girl” had been quietly dealing with some health issues.
Sources said Michelle underwent a liver transplant just before her death. However, the actress never spoke out about the surgery in the press or on social media.
The “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” alum actually hit back at those who speculated about her wellbeing online.
Michelle first sparked concern in January 2024 when she posted a series of selfies that showcased a much different appearance than the one fans had grown familiar with while watching her various TV and film projects.
“Explain to me how I look sick,” the “EuroTrip” star said in defense of her looks at the time. “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14. I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”
However, when people tried to explain to Michelle that they were just worried because her hair was thinner and her eyes had a yellowish tint, she dismissed them as “haters.”
“I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery I am happy and healthy. Check yourself haters,” the “Ice Princess” star wrote on Instagram.
She added in a separate post at the time, “Fun fact. This is my face. Not malnutrition no problems. Why do you have you hate? Get a calendar.”
Leading up to her death, Michelle posted mostly throwback photos of herself, reminiscing on past red carpet looks. However, a week before she died, she posted a more current selfie.
The “17 Again” star, who was born in New York City and had been acting since the age of 3, captioned the close-up image of herself, “Eye of the Tiger.”
Michelle was survived by her mother and father, Michael Trachtenberg. She had also been in a longterm relationship with talent agent Jay Cohen. He did not immediately return Page Six’s request for comment.
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