Despite only being fifteen when she first appeared on "Buffy", Michelle
Christine Trachtenberg already had a string of acting roles behind her
Born in New York on October 11,1985, Michelle proved her acting
talents at an early age. Realising the enormous talents her small daughter
possessed, Michelle's mother, Lana, moved her to Los Angeles to help
kick start her career.
Michelle quickly secured the role of autistic youngster Lily Benton
Montgomery in "All My Children" along side Sarah Michelle Gellar. At
the same time she was offered a recurring role on the very surreal show "The
Adventures of Pete & Pete"
In 1995, Michelle also gained fame portraying child heroin Harriet in the
movie version of "Harriet the Spy" and later opposite Matthew Broderick in
"Inspector Gadget".
In 2000, Joss Whedon began his search for a young actress to play Buffy's
"new" younger sister, Dawn, who turns out to be "The Key". Originally, the
role was intended for a much younger girl. However, having worked with
Michelle on "All My Children", Sarach convinced Joss to allow the younger
girl to read. Joss was immediately impressed by Michelle and hired her
instantly. For Michelle, it was a dream come true. Not only did she have
the oppotunity to work with Sarah again, but also because she is has
always been a self confessed "Buffyholic", having watched from the first
episode.
