The family of actor Nicholas Brendon made the announcement that the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” actor has passed away at 54 years old. They write, “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes.”
The family statement continues, “Most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he brought to life over the years. In recent years, Nicky has found his passion in painting and art. Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends, and fans.
“He was passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create. Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was. Our family asks for privacy during this time as we grieve his loss and celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination, and heart. Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support.”
The Hollywood Reporter notes in their obituary, “Nicholas Brendon had revealed in 2023 that he had suffered a heart attack and had been diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. He also had cauda equina syndrome, which led to several spinal surgeries.”
Nicholas Brendon played Xander Harris in 144 episodes of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” from 1997 – 2003, and his other roles include Children of the Corn III: Urban Harvest, Psycho Beach Party, Survival Island, “Kitchen Confidential,” Fire Serpent, Blood on the Highway, “Private Practice,” Coherence, “Criminal Minds,” Redwood, and Christmas Slasher.
“Buffy” co-star Alyson Hannigan writes on Instagram, “My Sweet Nicky, thank you for years of laughter, love and Dodgers. I will think of you every time I see a rocking chair. I love you. RIP.”
Sarah Michelle Gellar writes in a tribute of her own, “‘They’ll never know how tough it is to be the one who isn’t chosen. To live so near to the spotlight, and never step in it. But I know. I see more than anybody realizes, because nobody’s watching me.’ I saw you Nicky. I know you are at peace, in that big rocking chair in the sky.”
We send our deepest condolences to Nicholas Brendon’s family, friends, and many fans.
We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes. pic.twitter.com/DqVQfVL8Xk
— Nicholas Brendon (@NicholasBrendon) March 21, 2026
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