Michelle Trachtenberg, 39, was on the cusp of a career milestone with her screenplay “Toy Monster” before her unexpected death on Feb. 26, 2025.
Sources tell Page Six she and director Casey Tebo had nearly secured backing from a major finance studio for the script, adapted from Jerry Oppenheimer’s 2009 book exposing Mattel’s shady practices. Tebo, who praised it as one of the best he’d read, paused the project but vows to finish it in her honor.
Trachtenberg’s mother, Lana, found her unresponsive in her NYC apartment last Wednesday. After a recent liver transplant, her health had faltered—she appeared frail at a dinner days prior, sources say.
Her family skipped an autopsy for religious reasons, leaving her cause of death “undetermined.” Co-stars like Sarah Michelle Gellar mourned her loss online.
A Dream Deferred
For years, Trachtenberg and Tebo pitched “Toy Monster,” a tale of Mattel’s controversial world. Last month, they neared a deal, but her passing halted talks. Tebo remains committed, saying she deserved this spotlight. Transitioning from actress to writer, her talent shone in the script, yet Hollywood’s recognition eluded her until now.
Health Struggles Shadow Success
Despite denying “sick” rumors on Instagram in 2024, Trachtenberg privately told friends she was struggling, per People. Her frail frame at Sartiano’s alarmed onlookers—she barely managed stairs, a staffer noted. Her liver transplant’s role in her death remains unclear, leaving fans and peers grieving a star cut short.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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