Blake Lively Honors Late Co-Star Michelle Trachtenberg with Unseen Gossip Girl Photos
Blake Lively Unleashes Vintage Gossip Girl Photos and a Heartfelt Tribute to Late Costar Michelle Trachtenberg
In a shocking turn of events, Blake Lively has taken a break from her highly publicized courtroom drama with Justin Baldoni to celebrate the life and legacy of her beloved Gossip Girl co-star Michelle Trachtenberg. The 38-year-old actress shared a stunning series of throwback photos on social media, showcasing her time on the hit CW teen drama alongside Trachtenberg, who tragically passed away at just 39 due to complications from diabetes mellitus in February.
The sultry and sassy snaps have left fans swooning, with many taking to the comments section to express their admiration for Lively's heartfelt tribute. The photos, which were taken on set during the show's six-season run, feature Trachtenberg rocking a black shirt with a necklace while Lively sports a maroon shirt. Both stars are seen with their hair down and parted, radiating a carefree and confident energy that's quintessential to the Gossip Girl era.
The Gossip Girl cast was known for its chemistry and camaraderie, both on and off screen. Trachtenberg's passing has left a void in the industry, but Lively's words are a testament to the impact her late friend had on those who knew her. "She was electricity," Lively said of Trachtenberg in an Instagram post earlier this year. "You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed." The tribute continued: "Everything [Trachtenberg] did, she did 200%."
Lively's portrayal of Trachtenberg as a kind, supportive, and brave soul has left fans in awe. She described her late co-star as someone who laughed wholeheartedly at jokes, stood up to authority when necessary, and cared deeply about her work. Trachtenberg was also praised for being fiercely loyal to her friends and loved ones.
The cause of Trachtenberg's death was confirmed by the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner in April as "natural," but her family had initially cited religious reasons for not wanting the results of her autopsy made public. Lively's tribute has sparked an outpouring of love and support from fans and fellow celebrities alike, with many echoing her sentiments about Trachtenberg's enduring legacy.
But what about the drama unfolding in Lively's personal life? The actress is currently embroiled in a bitter courtroom battle with Justin Baldoni over allegations of on-set harassment. In December 2024, Lively sued Baldoni for allegedly making unwanted advances during filming of their romantic drama It Ends with Us. However, Baldoni has denied these claims and fired back with a defamation suit against Lively, her publicist Leslie Sloane, and husband Ryan Reynolds.
To make matters even more complicated, Baldoni also took aim at The New York Times in a $250 million lawsuit over its explosive exposé on Lively's allegations. However, in a major blow to the actor's case, a judge recently dismissed his lawsuit in a stunning victory for Lively and her team.
As the drama unfolds in the courtroom, it's clear that Blake Lively is more focused on celebrating the life of her beloved friend Michelle Trachtenberg than getting bogged down in controversy. The throwback photos are a reminder that, even in the midst of chaos, true friendships can stand the test of time and shine brighter than any drama.