Nicholas Brendon’s cause of death has been confirmed by his family following reports that the actor had died.
Brendon’s loved ones shared the news on March 20, saying he had passed away at the age of 54. He was widely recognized for playing Xander in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and also appeared in Criminal Minds alongside films including Coherence, Redwood, and Demon Island.
In recent years, the actor had spoken publicly about ongoing health issues. He suffered a heart attack in 2023 and was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.
He also experienced cauda equina syndrome and underwent surgery in 2021 as part of his treatment, Metro Online reports.
Explaining the condition, Cleveland Clinic notes the syndrome “is the compression of a collection of nerve roots called the cauda equina”. It lists symptoms such as lower back and leg pain, weakness, numbness or altered sensation in the backs of the legs, buttocks, hips and inner thighs, as well as incontinence and urinary retention.
In a social media post shared Friday, Brendon’s family said he died in his sleep, adding that his death was due to “natural causes”.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes,” they wrote alongside photos of Brendon through the years.
“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.”
Brendon had previously been open about challenges involving addiction and mental health.
His family added in their statement: “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.”
Sarah Michelle Gellar—who recently discussed why the Buffy reboot has been abruptly canceled—also honored Brendon with a tribute after his death.
Gellar, 48, posted a photo to her five million Instagram followers as she remembered her former co-star.
She wrote: “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.”
She added: “I saw you Nicky. I know you are at peace, in that big rocking chair in the sky.”
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