New court filings have reportedly shed light on how Nicholas Brendon’s estate may be handled, just months after the Buffy the Vampire Slayer actor died at 54.
Brendon’s family confirmed his death on March 20 and shared a statement about his passing.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes,” they wrote, adding that ‘most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he brought to life over the years’.
The actor was best known for playing Xander Harris, Buffy’s loyal friend, across all seven seasons of the popular supernatural drama. He also appeared in other television projects over the years and, in later interviews, spoke candidly about his health struggles, addiction, and efforts to recover.
In 2022, Brendon said he had experienced a heart attack and later learned he had a congenital heart defect.
Referencing some of the difficulties he had faced, his family said he had been receiving treatment and remained hopeful about what was ahead.
According to court documents filed this week and obtained by TMZ, an alleged handwritten will left by the actor has now come to light.
“My will. Sarah gets nothing Kel gets everything. He can figure it out,” the alleged handwritten will read.
The wording is said to refer to his twin brother, Kelly Donovan, and his former partner, Sarah Marker.
The documents reportedly state that Brendon was not married and did not have any children. They also indicate there is not yet an estimated value for his estate.
Filings further show that his parents, Robert and Kathleen, each declined to serve as administrator of the estate and instead supported the appointment of his twin brother.
A hearing on the matter is scheduled for July 16.
Brendon’s death was officially ruled as being from natural causes. The coroner later reported that cardiovascular disease was the primary cause, with acute pneumonia and his earlier heart attack listed as contributing factors.
Over the years, the actor had also spoken openly about his battles with addiction and mental health.
“While it’s no secret that Nicholas had struggles in the past, he was on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and he was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing.
“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.”