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6 hours ago
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Michelle Trachtenberg‘s shocking and sudden death — at just 39 years old — has been a huge blow to a wide swath of fans. Those who grew up with Harriet The Spy or Disney‘s Ice Princess, those who knew her as an evil genius in Gossip Girl. But now Buffy The Vampire Slayer fans have one extra reason to mourn…
If you haven’t heard, a Buffy revival series for Hulu was just announced three weeks ago, with Poker Face writers Nora and Lilla Zuckerman and Oscar-winning director of Eternals Chloe Zhao taking over from disgraced creator Joss Whedon. But most importantly was the reveal this would be a continuation of the original series, not a remake. That meant some of the original cast, led by Sarah Michelle Gellar, would be back.
Related: Sarah Michelle Gellar Pays Tribute To Michelle With Buffy Quote After Her Death
Besides Buffy herself, her sister Dawn was the second most obvious character who was sure to return, meaning a comeback for Michelle. And fan speculation was right on the money, per a new report. A source told DailyMail.com on Thursday:
“Michelle Trachtenberg was in talks to return to Buffy the reboot and she was incredibly hopeful about it.”
Oof. That news is like another stab in the heart. SHE WAS COMING BACK TO OUR SCREENS! AND HOPEFUL ABOUT IT!!! Nooooo….
SMG was the one who originally suggested Michelle for Dawn — and yes, she was pushing to bring her back. The insider says:
“Sarah Michelle obviously felt that the reboot would need her as much as it needed Sarah…
Apparently those involved in the show were aware of her health problems, but that wasn’t going to stop them from planning the show with Dawn a key part:
“She was a pivotal role in the original and everyone was aware of her recent health struggles. They were hoping that, perhaps, casting her as Sarah’s sister in a reboot would help her overcome any issues she was having. She was not cast out by any means.”
Now the newly formed writing room will have to rethink early scripts, says the source:
“It is still in early stages, but the reboot will feel her void. Fans were hopeful that she would be cast and Michelle expressed interest and excitement at the opportunity.”
Ugh, so sad!!! Now Buffy fans will lose both Michelle Trachtenberg AND Dawn Summers. Another sad aspect of an already heartbreaking tragedy.
How would YOU like the show to handle Dawn’s absence?
[Image via 20th Century Television/YouTube.]
