Nicholas Brendon’s cause of death has been shared by his family following news that the actor has died.
Brendon’s loved ones announced on March 20 that he had passed away at the age of 54. He was widely recognized for portraying Xander Harris in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and also appeared in Criminal Minds along with films including Coherence, Redwood, and Demon Island.
In recent years, the actor experienced a number of health issues. He suffered a heart attack in 2023 and was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.
He also dealt with cauda equina syndrome and underwent surgery in 2021 to address the condition, Metro Online reports.
According to Cleveland Clinic, the syndrome “is the compression of a collection of nerve roots called the cauda equina”. Symptoms may include lower back and leg pain, leg weakness, numbness or sensations in the backs of your legs, butt, hip and inner thighs, incontinence, and urinary retention.
In a message shared to social media on 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 spoken openly about his struggles with addiction and his mental health.
His family continued 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.”
Following the announcement, Sarah Michelle Gellar paid tribute to her former co-star. Gellar, 48, posted a photo to her five million Instagram followers along with a message honoring Brendon.
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.”
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].