A Glittering Legacy Lives On: Figure Skaters Pay Tribute to Beloved ‘Ice Princess’ Michelle Trachtenberg The world of figure skating and Hollywood are mourning the loss of a beloved icon: Michelle Trachtenberg, the talented actress and heartthrob of the early 2000s. Known to millions as the ‘Ice Princess,’ her captivating portrayal of Casey Carlyle in the 2005 Disney movie still inspires young skaters today. As news of her passing spreads, fans and figure skaters are coming together to pay tribute to the actress who brought the magic of the ice to life on screen. From heartfelt social media posts to personal stories of how ‘Ice Princess’ impacted their lives, we take a look at how the figure skating community is honoring the memory of this beloved ‘Ice Princess.’
Michelle Trachtenberg’s Enduring Legacy
In the week following Michelle Trachtenberg’s death, fan tributes have been pouring in from all over. The late actress, who made a lasting impression as the titular child detective in Harriet the Spy, was beloved by a generation that grew up with her.
The Inspiration Behind the Ice
The Impact of Ice Princess: How Trachtenberg’s Character Inspired a Generation of Figure Skaters
Trachtenberg also inspired many young figure skaters who knew her best from the 2005 film Ice Princess, in which she plays Casey Carlyle, a Harvard-bound teen who instead chooses to pursue her dream of being a professional figure skater. Now, the figure skaters Trachtenberg inspired to pursue the sport are honoring her with emotional on-ice routines.
The opening scene of Ice Princess has Trachtenberg skating around a frozen pond, bundled up in a beanie and mittens with a smile on her face. Aly and AJ’s Disney-era hit “No One” — a song about being content with exactly who you are — plays in the background. For figure skaters like Ryan Dunk, this scene holds a certain significance.
Dunk, 24, from Baltimore, told Morningpicker, “My best way of dealing with things or expressing things is through movement and music. When I saw the news that Michelle had passed away, I was compelled to skate to that song because I remember it so vividly from the beginning of the movie when she’s on that pond. I wanted to just do a tribute to her. She inspired me and so many others as kids and young adults.”
Personal Stories: Figure Skaters Share Their Tributes and Memories of Trachtenberg
As a child, Dunk watched Ice Princess repeatedly. It quickly became a staple for him. “The movie does such a good job of expressing the freedom of skating and what draws a lot of people to the ice. That fantasy of flying and feeling strong and beautiful, as [Trachtenberg] says in the movie,” he said. “She gave a lot of people the ability to not be afraid to dream and not, as cheesy as it sounds, be afraid to go after something that you’re passionate about.”
Dunk recalls watching Trachtenberg perform the final routine at the end of the film, in her sparkly ombré blue dress and mini tiara. Trachtenberg’s character Casey falls down at one point, eliciting gasps from the audience. But she gets back up and finishes the routine to roars of applause. “That was such a huge deal for 7-year-old Ryan,” he said.
For Thita Lamsam, 25, being able to figure skate felt nearly impossible. Lamsam, who is from Thailand, told Morningpicker that figure skaters are “kind of nonexistent” where she’s from. But watching Ice Princess changed everything for her.
“I watched it with my older sister,” Lamsam said. “We would try to mimic the movie, but there were no ice rinks in Thailand basically. So we would just put baby powder on the floor and put socks on and pretend that we were skating. I knew most if not all the characters’ programs by heart.”
Lamsam, a student at Northwestern University in Chicago, continues to skate. She posted her tribute to Trachtenberg on TikTok as well, thanking the actress for helping her realize her passion 18 years ago. “[Trachtenberg’s] character made a huge impact in my life,” she said. “Probably the biggest impact because her character is what made me decide to start skating. And because of that, I got to experience so many things that I never thought I was going to experience.”
The Power of Sports Movies: How Ice Princess Captured the Fantasy and Freedom of Figure Skating
The impact of Ice Princess goes beyond just inspiring figure skaters. The movie captures the fantasy and freedom of figure skating, showcasing the beauty and elegance of the sport. Trachtenberg’s performance as Casey Carlyle brought the character to life, making her relatable and inspiring to audiences.
Tributes from the Fandom
HellmouthCon’s Tribute: Honoring Trachtenberg’s Legacy at the Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel Convention
Fans of Ice Princess aren’t the only ones paying tribute to the late star. HellmouthCon, an annual fandom event that celebrates the Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel universes, plans to honor Trachtenberg at their upcoming gathering on the weekend of June 13.
The convention has previously paid tribute to other stars from Buffy and Angel who’ve passed away. The event has raised funds for relevant foundations and hosted panels where former co-stars come together and recall their favorite memories with the late stars.
Fan Tributes: Readers Share Their Memories and Favorite Roles of Trachtenberg
Morningpicker readers have been sharing their tributes and memories of Trachtenberg, celebrating her life and work. From her breakout role in Harriet the Spy to her iconic performance in Ice Princess, Trachtenberg’s legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences.
A Community in Mourning: How Fans Are Coming Together to Celebrate Trachtenberg’s Life and Work
The outpouring of tributes and condolences from fans and colleagues alike is a testament to Trachtenberg’s impact on the entertainment industry and her fans. As the news of her passing continues to sink in, fans are coming together to celebrate her life and work, honoring her memory and legacy.
Celebrating Trachtenberg’s Life and Career
A Career Spanning Decades: Trachtenberg’s Rise to Fame and Notable Roles
Trachtenberg’s career spanned decades, with notable roles in films like Inspector Gadget and 17 Again. She also starred as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and as math prodigy-turned-figure skater Casey Carlyle in Disney’s Ice Princess.
Tributes from Colleagues and Friends: Blake Lively, Chase Crawford, Ed Westwick, and More Share Their Memories
Trachtenberg’s colleagues and friends have been sharing their tributes and memories of the late actress. Blake Lively, who starred as Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, shared a touching tribute about Trachtenberg on her Instagram Story.
“This is the first day I met Michelle. She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed. Everything she did, she did 200%. She laughed the fullest at someone’s joke, she faced authority head-on when she felt something was wrong, she cared deeply about her work, she was proud to be a part of this community and industry as painful as it could be sometimes, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved, she was big and bold and distinctly herself.”
Chase Crawford, known for his role as Nate Archibald on Gossip Girl, shared a slideshow of Trachtenberg on Instagram. “Michelle was one of a kind,” he wrote. “I remember her coming on set for the first time and just absolutely owning it. She was a force of nature and just so so unapologetically funny and magnetic.. remembering those years with a big smile. Just a terrible loss. Love you ❤️”
Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass on Gossip Girl, posted a photo of Trachtenberg on his Instagram Story. “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg,” he wrote. “Sending prayers.”
The Lasting Impact of Trachtenberg’s Work: How Her Roles Will Continue to Inspire Future Generations
Trachtenberg’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors, figure skaters, and fans alike. Her impact on the entertainment industry and her fans is undeniable, and her memory will live on through her work.
The Human Side of Trachtenberg’s Story
Struggles and Triumphs: Trachtenberg’s Personal Struggle and Her Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Trachtenberg’s personal struggles and triumphs are an important part of her story. Her resilience in the face of adversity is an inspiration to many, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to persevere in the face of challenges.
A Complex and Multifaceted Person: Exploring Trachtenberg’s Personality and Character
Trachtenberg was a complex and multifaceted person, with a personality and character that shone through in her work. Her legacy will continue to inspire others to embrace their own unique personalities and characters.
The Importance of Mental Health: How Trachtenberg’s Story Highlights the Need for Support and Understanding
Trachtenberg’s story highlights the importance of mental health support and understanding. Her legacy will continue to inspire others to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed.
Conclusion
As we bid farewell to the ‘Ice Princess,’ Michelle Trachtenberg’s legacy continues to captivate the hearts of figure skaters and fans alike. The article highlights the profound impact of her iconic portrayal in the 2005 film, which not only resonated with young girls worldwide but also inspired a generation of figure skaters. The tributes pouring in from the figure skating community, from dedication of performances to heartfelt messages on social media, demonstrate the lasting influence of Trachtenberg’s character, Casey Carlyle.
The article underscores the significance of Trachtenberg’s portrayal in shaping the perception of figure skating as a sport, rather than a hobby. Her character’s determination and perseverance in the face of adversity have inspired countless young skaters to push beyond their limits and pursue their passion. Moreover, the outpouring of tributes serves as a poignant reminder of the power of media to shape cultural narratives and inspire positive change. As the figure skating community continues to evolve, Trachtenberg’s legacy will undoubtedly remain an integral part of its fabric.