Michelle Trachtenberg Had Complications From Diabetes

TMZ reported at 2:03 p.m. on April 16, 2025 that Michelle Trachtenberg‘s cause of death was complications of diabetes.

The “Harriet the Spy” and “Ice Princess” star died on February 26, 2025. She was found by her mother in her NYC apartment, according to an NBC Channel 4 report.

STORY DEVELOPING.

TMZ says they got the information from NYC authorities.

The story quotes the medical examiner as saying Trachtenberg passed away from “complications of diabetes mellitus,” and says there is no word on whether the starlet had type 1 or 2.

TMZ also says the investigation is considered closed at this point, because authorities have deemed that the death was “natural.”

What Diabetes Mellitus Is

After hearing the news, fans may be wondering, “What is diabetes mellitus?” TMZ’s report says “diabetes mellitus” is simply the formal name for diabetes. According to the Cleveland Clinic, diabetes is “a condition that happens when your blood sugar is too high.”

The hospital’s summary goes on to say this takes place when the body isn’t responding properly to insulin. It also says all ages can be affected, and the condition can typically be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

Several Celebrities Have Spoken Out About Diabetes

Nick Jonas, Halle Berry, and former American Idol judge Randy Jackson are just a few stars who have publicly advocated for diabetes awareness and shared their own experiences with the condition.

Jonas told Stat he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2005 at age 13. He said while at a school to give a performance, he “started feeling like I was evaporating, physically and emotionally.” He said earlier warning signs were weight loss, fatigue, and low appetite.

He said prioritizing meals and keeping up with his blood sugar is now an essential part of his life.

The “Year 3000” singer said the thing that surprises him most as a celebrity publicly living with the ailment is “how quickly people assume someone’s journey.” He pointed out that while the condition is manageable, the public often doesn’t realize it can also be dangerous. “It can be life threatening and dangerous in so many ways,” he pointed out, before adding that he thinks “a sensitivity to others should be kind of inherent when someone shares their story or journey.”