Oscars viewers took to social media to criticize the 97th Academy Awards for omitting Michelle Trachtenberg from its In Memoriam tribute.
On February 26, the Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer star was found deceased at One Columbus Place in New York at the age of 39. Her passing was confirmed by her family, friends, and authorities.
During the March 3 Oscars ceremony, Hollywood paid tribute to stars who had passed away, but fans were quick to notice that Trachtenberg was not included in the segment.
While widely recognized for her television roles, Trachtenberg also had a notable film career, appearing in movies such as Ice Princess and 17 Again.
A representative for her family released a statement confirming her passing:
“It is with great sadness that we confirm Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy as they grieve their loss.”
The NYPD also issued a statement:
“Criminality is not suspected. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.”
Following the Oscars tribute, fans and colleagues expressed frustration over Trachtenberg’s omission. Her Gossip Girl co-star Blake Lively was among those who paid tribute to the late actress on social media.
Many viewers voiced their disappointment online.
One Twitter user wrote: “WTF??? #Oscars2025. In Memoriam tribute didn’t include Michelle Trachtenberg???? WTF SHE DIED BEFORE GENE AND HE WAS IN IT.”
Another added: “Not including Michelle Trachtenberg in the In Memoriam should be considered a federal crime.”
A third wrote: “Leaving Michelle Trachtenberg out is totally disrespectful. She was an amazing actress on both the small and big screen.”
A fourth commented: “Michelle Trachtenberg not being mentioned in the In Memoriam section of the Oscars is upsetting. You are and will remain so loved and admired, Michelle.”
UNILAD has reached out to the Academy for comment.
This year’s In Memoriam tribute was led by Morgan Freeman, who honored the late Gene Hackman, who passed away at 95 alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63. The couple was found deceased in their home along with their dog.
Other stars remembered in the segment included Dame Maggie Smith, Dame Joan Plowright, Donald Sutherland, Kris Kristofferson, Shelley Duvall, David Lynch, and James Earl Jones.
