Michelle Trachtenberg, an esteemed actress who graced our screens as a “Gossip Girl” icon, was on the cusp of securing approval for a screenplay before her untimely demise last week. Casey Tebo, a director and producer of note, disclosed on Monday that he had collaborated meticulously with Trachtenberg over the years to bring “Toy Monster” to life. This cinematic endeavor was inspired by Jerry Oppenheimer’s 2009 expose, which unveiled the murky depths and controversial practices of Mattel’s corporate world.
Tebo, whose directorial prowess was evident in the 2021 thriller “Black Friday,” expressed his utmost admiration for Trachtenberg’s screenplay to TMZ, describing it as one of the finest he had ever laid eyes on. Despite years of negotiations with various studios, the duo had finally garnered momentum last month, inching closer to securing the backing of a “highly reputable and financially solvent studio.”
However, their aspirations were abruptly halted by the tragic passing of Trachtenberg at the tender age of 39. Following her demise, both Tebo and the unnamed studio, out of respect for the late actress, momentarily halted their discussions. Nevertheless, the filmmaker emphasized his unwavering commitment to making the film in Trachtenberg’s honor, as it was a vision she longed to see realized.
