Leighton Meester speaks out about co-star Michelle Trachtenberg’s death for the first time

For the first time, Leighton Meester addressed the shocking death of her co-star from "Gossip Girl." co-star Michelle Trachtenberg , describing the loss as “devastating” .

The 39-year-old actress, who portrayed Queen Bee Blair Waldorf from the popular show In a recent interview with Flaunt, she spoke openly about the tragedy, mentioning how deeply it affected her since they were of the same age when the news struck her.

She was an amazing and gifted individual whom everybody adored," Meester stated. "It's incredibly sorrowful for all those who were acquainted with her.

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Meester and Trachtenberg, who portrayed the popular villainous character Georgina Sparks, co-starred in the renowned teen drama series from 2007 through to 2012.

Meester reflected on the show's lasting impact, stating: "Looking back, it seems to be thriving even more now in certain aspects compared to how it was when we were doing it. That’s truly amazing."

Last month, Penn Badgely, who portrayed Dan Humphrey in the series, addressed her death.

Badgley mentioned, "The thing I recall about her is that she could burst into laughter very quickly," he shared with the publication. "She exuded happiness genuinely. Everyone experiences highs and lows, bright moments and darker times, yet she possessed this—she was grown-up, but at the same time, she would let out a joyful, almost childish giggle."

Trachenberg’s passing has saddened his fans and co-stars, with ongoing tributes still coming in.

US actress Michell Trachtenberg was found "unconscious and unresponsive" in her New York Apartment in February.

Authorities in New York have confirmed the cause of death of the actress, two months after she was found deceased in her New York City apartment at the age of 39. According to reports from TMZ, the medical examiner has determined that Michelle died from complications related to diabetes, specifically "complications of diabetes mellitus".

The laboratory findings failed to indicate whether Michelle suffered from type 1 or type 2 diabetes. This revelation follows reports that Michelle’s relatives opted against conducting an autopsy, with her demise being recorded as “inconclusive”.

In February,Michelle was sadly discovered deceased at a residence in New York.

Emergency responders attended an incident at One Columbus Place in New York following a call, where they found Michelle deceased upon arrival. According to sources who spoke with People magazine soon after her death, Michelle had shared her battles with both physical and mental well-being with trusted companions during the 12 months preceding her demise.

The source disclosed: "She was extremely ill and candidly discussed her challenges with people near to her," adding that she seemed "pale, emaciated, and significantly underweight."

Michelle was an observant Jew, and her relatives declined an autopsy for religious reasons.

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