Leighton Meester mourned the loss of her 'Gossip Girl' co-star Michelle Trachtenberg, who died at 39 from diabetes complications, recalling her immense talent and joyous spirit amid tributes from fellow cast members.

The untimely death of Michelle Trachtenberg, found unconscious in her New York apartment on February 26, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, particularly among her 'Gossip Girl' co-stars. Leighton Meester and Penn Badgley reflected on Trachtenberg's vibrant personality and talent, underscoring the deep bond formed during their time on the show. Trachtenberg's struggle with health issues, including a recent liver transplant, adds a poignant layer to her passing, drawing attention to the impact of diabetes on young lives.

Leighton Meester expressed her grief, describing Trachtenberg's passing as 'devastating.' In her statement, Meester highlighted Trachtenberg's remarkable qualities, stating, 'She was a wonderful, talented person who brought so much joy to those around her.' The heartfelt memories shared by Meester and other cast members illustrate the strong camaraderie that developed on the set of the popular series.

In addition to Meester, Penn Badgley, who played Dan Humphrey on the show, shared a tribute that remembered Trachtenberg for her infectious laughter and joyous spirit. He described her as 'incredibly quick to laugh,' citing that her light-hearted demeanor brought happiness to both colleagues and fans alike. Badgley's fond recollections serve as a reminder of the vibrant energy Trachtenberg brought to the series.

Blake Lively, another of Trachtenberg's 'Gossip Girl' co-stars, also paid her respects, focusing on Trachtenberg's powerful presence and unwavering loyalty. Lively remarked on how Trachtenberg's uniqueness and character contributed to the show's success, framing her as an irreplaceable member of their ensemble. According to Lively, 'Her joyful spirit and distinctive character left an indelible mark on all of us.'

Trachtenberg's death comes after she had undergone a liver transplant the previous year, raising questions concerning her health struggles leading up to her passing. Before her death, there were visible concerns among her friends and family, as Trachtenberg appeared gaunt in recent social media posts. Despite her physical condition at the time, she had publicly insisted that she was 'happy and healthy.' Her family has requested privacy as they navigate this devastating loss.

The legacy of 'Gossip Girl' has continued to thrive since it originally aired from 2007 to 2012, with Meester emphasizing the show's lasting impression on pop culture. She noted that the show’s relevance has arguably increased over time, with new fans discovering it alongside those who grew up watching the series. This ongoing popularity has sparked renewed interest in its cast members and their journeys, including that of Trachtenberg.

Leighton Meester, along with other former co-stars, showcased their connection and nostalgia for 'Gossip Girl' by participating in a comedy bit during the recent Screen Actors Guild Awards. This event marked a commemorative moment for the cast and a testament to the special bond formed through their shared experiences on the show. In light of Trachtenberg’s recent passing, such reunions take on added weight, reminding colleagues and fans of the bond that continues beyond the screen.

As the entertainment community mourns, Trachtenberg's representative confirmed her death and urged for privacy for her family during this trying time. The widespread feelings of loss and grief highlight not only Trachtenberg's talents but also the lasting connections that come from years of collaboration in the industry. Her impact on her co-stars and audience remains significant as they reflect on the full scope of her life and legacy.