Michelle Trachtenberg Loves 'Harriet The Spy' Too

Believe it or not, it's been 20 years since Harriet the Spy came out — the movie, of course, not the book. In fact, Sunday, June 10 was the 20th anniversary of the 1996 film, and lead actress Michelle Trachtenberg didn't let it pass without giving the day due respect. In fact, Trachtenberg shared a Harriet the Spy- era snapshot of herself that will have fans of the film crying warm, nostalgic tears. You know, those of us who aren't crying for a completely different reason, like, you know, the realization that 20 years have passed since we first watched this movie and we're getting on in years. Not that I'm concerned about that. At all.

The caption for Trachtenberg's post reminds us that not only do we age, but we must also mature. She points out that when she performed as a young spy named Harriet, she was 10 years old, it was her first movie, and it was a "dream come true." Since then, Trachtenberg's been in everything from Buffy the Vampire Slayer as the most hated preteen in all of America, to a post-grad just trying to have some fun in Eurotrip, to a cruel and manipulative socialite in Gossip Girl. Like the rest of us, the actress has grown a great deal.

For a lot of young girls, Harriet the Spy defined who they wanted to be and become. The gusty and crafty girl inspired courage and bravery in those who watched her adventures. She was one of the few strong, young female characters who captivated audiences and also showed that girls could totally keep up with the boys. It's interesting to think about the sorts of ways she must have inspired young girls 20 years ago to be the women they are now.

As "honored" as Trachtenberg is "to have been the girl who brought Harriet to life," so should we feel honored to have gotten to watch her do so. She did a great job bringing the character to life, and to our hearts, whether we read the books or not. Even though a reminder of how long ago Harriet the Spy hit theaters feels a little odd (where does the time go?), it's still nice to feel like a part of something bigger, something that captivated so many.

You may now proceed with your 20th Anniversary Harriet the Spy Viewing Parties. Don't forget to bring your notebook.

Images: Paramount Pictures; Giphy