Michelle Trachtenberg had plans to appear at Hollywood event before her death at 39
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Michelle Trachtenberg was slated to appear at a private benefit screening of the documentary film 'Spyral' weeks before she was discovered dead on February 26, reported TMZ.
The revelation suggests Trachtenberg was as unprepared for her death as the rest of the world. 'Spyral' showcases filmmaker Bill Gutentag documenting his wife's struggles with mental illness and marks Trachtenberg's final credited performance in Hollywood.
Michelle Trachtenberg's involvement with 'Spyral'
Jennifer Hutchins, who served as a producer on 'Spyral' reportedly told TMZ that Michelle Trachtenberg was scheduled to make an appearance at a private benefit screening of the movie in Austin during SXSW on Wednesday, March 12, to support mental health nonprofits.
In her final role, Trachtenberg read excerpts from the diary of Michelle Cody White, wife of filmmaker Randall White. Michelle suffered from bipolar depression that remained undiagnosed till her death.
As per the publication, Trachtenberg completed her voiceover work in the project in 2021, but the release of the film was stalled as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. 'Spyral' finally made it to the screens in 2024.
On the subject of Trachtenberg's appearance at the screening event, Hutchins claimed that the team was aware of the late actress' struggle with health issues. They wanted her to attend only if she was feeling up for it, either in person or virtually over video call.
'Spyral' team will honor Michelle Trachtenberg's legacy
Hutchins shared that Michelle Trachtenberg was "one of the sweetest, most gentle human beings I’ve ever had the pleasure to know. I could tell she cared deeply about people and using her voice for the greater good."
Her performance in the film, which is yet to bag a public distribution deal, reportedly moved people to tears. To honor her memory, the team behind 'Spyral' will move forward with the special screening events planned while raising awareness and collecting funds for mental health.
Trachtenberg was found unresponsive inside her New York City home earlier last week, where first responders declared her dead. However, the cause of her demise is yet to be revealed. Her family has declined to have an autopsy performed, as per TMZ.
