Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Nicholas Brendon has passed away at the age of 54, his family announced in a statement shared on social media on Friday.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes,” read the statement, shared to the actor’s official Facebook page.
“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.”
The family asked for privacy as they grieve the loss and “celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination, and heart”.
Brendon shot to fame for playing Xander Harris, one of Buffy’s two best friends, in the cult favourite series that ran from 1997 to 2003. He received three Emmy nominations for his role in Buffy, two for best TV actor and one for best TV supporting actor.
Alyson Hannigan shared a touching tribute to him 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.”
Apart from Buffy, Brendon also appeared in other shows such as Criminal Minds, Private Practice and Kitchen Confidential.
The BBC reported that Brendon was open about his health struggles, including a heart attack, and underwent two spinal surgeries for cauda equina syndrome, a rare condition that can affect movement as well as bladder and bowel function.
His death comes a year after the passing of Michelle Trachtenberg, who also starred on the show as Dawn, Buffy’s younger sister.
