Nearly five months after the tragic loss of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, her longtime partner, Jay Cohen, is speaking out for the first time. According to The New York Post, in a quiet and heartfelt exchange on Instagram. Cohen reflected on his journey of healing and acknowledged the outpouring of support he has received since her passing.

On July 10, the 63-year-old Hollywood executive shared a post celebrating the 26th anniversary of his life-saving kidney transplant. He thanked those who supported him through joy, pain, and grief. He also shared an emotional message that reflected the quiet strength he’s shown in the months since Trachtenberg’s passing.
Jay Cohen Marks Kidney Transplant Milestone With Powerful Message of Gratitude & Empathy
In the emotional post, Cohen reflected on the 26th anniversary of receiving a life-saving kidney transplant from what he called a “selfless” donor. As reported by US Weekly, Cohen reflected on the 26th anniversary of receiving a life-saving kidney transplant from what he called a “selfless” donor.
According to US Weekly, he thanked the doctors at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, describing them as “true super heroes, people who live their lives with purpose, intention, selflessness, and with empathy!!”
Cohen also gave insight into how he’s been taking care of himself: “As always, I’m still in the gym keeping my mind and body in shape, healthy and calm. Yes, I’ve added some very personal tattoos, when I look in the mirror as I wake and get ready for bed, I remind myself of who I am, who I need to be, and why I am,” he wrote.
“An extremely important rule in my life, never do anything that I will not want to see when I look in the mirror and ask myself, was I true today?” He continued, “I am so grateful to all of you who are in my life, sharing our common joys, helping me with tragedies, and healing from pain and grief. I’m sure many of you know what I mean when I write that.”
Cohen ended the note by encouraging his followers to embrace kindness and compassion. “Life and aging are humbling,” he wrote. “Believe in love, believe in faith and spirituality, care about others!”
‘Michelle Was Loved by So Many’: Jay Cohen Responds With Grace While Remembering Her

As per New York Post, Cohen didn’t directly mention Trachtenberg in his caption. However, when a follower gently asked him to “talk about Michelle,” he responded with grace: “One day soon! I’m very sorry 💔.”
Another fan defended his privacy, calling the question “not cool”. Cohen (Whose Instagram account was private while the story is being written) replied with compassion, “Thank you, it’s OK, it, it comes from the right place. Michelle was loved by so many.”
The exchange marked the first time Cohen publicly addressed Trachtenberg’s passing. Though brief, his words resonated deeply with fans who had been waiting for a sign of remembrance from the person closest to her.
Inside Jay-Michelle’s Quiet But Strong Bond
Cohen and Trachtenberg kept their romance mostly off the radar. The two met through the industry—Cohen is a partner at Gersh, the talent agency that signed Trachtenberg in 2014. By 2020, they had quietly become a couple, later confirming their relationship on social media.
In 2023, the “Gossip Girl” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” actress shared a Valentine’s Day selfie, calling Cohen “My Valentine.” He returned the sentiment with posts describing her as “fireworks every day.” Although they never made public appearances together, glimpses into their relationship revealed a loving and grounded partnership.
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‘Loved By So Many’: ‘Gossip Girl’ Star’s Longtime Partner Remembers Her in Heartfelt Tribute