Michelle Trachtenberg’s Buffy The Vampire Slayer co-stars have paid tribute to their "little sister" following her death at the age of 39.
The American actress, also known for her role in Gossip Girl, was confirmed dead after emergency medical services arrived at One Columbus Place, New York, following a call at about 8am on Wednesday, the city’s police department said.
Her death is not being treated as suspicious and the police said the medical examiner will determine the cause of her death.
A representative for Trachtenberg told the PA news agency: "It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss. There are no further details at this time."
Emma Caulfield, who played Anya Jenkins on the hit supernatural drama, said the cast had "lost a little sister" in a post shared to her Instagram story where she referred to Trachtenberg as "Mish Mish".
She wrote: "I’m so sorry your bright light died so young. Our Buffy family lost a little sister today.
"Rest in peace lovely Mish Mish. You were loved."
How I Met Your Mother actress Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow Rosenberg, shared a series of photos of Trachtenberg including old pictures from when they shared scenes.
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She said: "I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing.
"She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends."
Another co-star, actor David Boreanaz, posted a black and white picture of Trachtenberg to his Instagram story and wrote "So very sad. Horrible news."
Trachtenberg joined the hit show in its fifth season as Dawn, the younger sister of Buffy, who was romantically linked to Angel, portrayed by Boreanaz.
Elsewhere, James Marsters, who played British vampire Spike, said Trachtenberg was "a beautiful soul" as he shared a selfie of the two together on Instagram.
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"My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul", he said.
"Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person. She died much too young and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her.
"My heart goes out to her family who are good people and are suffering the greatest loss anyone could bear.
"I hope everyone can give them space to heal in this most difficult time. Godspeed Michelle. You are missed."
It comes after Buffy actress Sarah Michelle Gellar announced in a social media post earlier in the month that she is "on the path" to reviving the show, alongside a team of "four unbelievably talented women".
Source: Press Association
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