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Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, has died at the age of 54, his family announced.
In a statement posted on social media, the family stated that he passed away in his sleep from natural causes. They did not disclose when or where his death occurred.
They described him as a creative and passionate individual who, beyond acting, had recently focused on painting and other artistic work.
The family added that those close to him knew him as someone who lived with intensity, imagination, and emotional depth, and asked for privacy as they mourn his passing.
“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,” the family said in the post.
“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.”
Brendon portrayed Xander Harris in Buffy the Vampire Slayer from 1997 to 2003, appearing throughout the show’s seven-season run.
The series followed Buffy, a teenager who battles supernatural forces while navigating high school life, with Brendon’s character serving as one of her closest friends.
The Los Angeles-born actor also appeared in television series including Criminal Minds, Private Practice, and Kitchen Confidential, along with several film roles.
He had previously spoken publicly about health challenges. In a 2023 Instagram post, he told fans he had undergone two spinal surgeries and had a heart attack.
