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Nicholas Brendon, the actor who played the role of Xander Harris in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, died at the age of 54.
Brendon’s family announced the actor’s death in a statement Friday evening, saying he died in his sleep of natural causes.
“We are devastated to announce the death of our brother and son Nicholas Brendon,” his family wrote. “Most people know Nicky through his work as an actor and the characters he has brought to life over the years. In recent years, Nicky had found his passion in painting and art. He loved sharing his talent with family, friends and fans. He was passionate, sensitive and driven by a relentless drive to create. Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest expressions of his being.”
From underdog to fan favorite
Los Angeles-born Brendon initially struggled to break into Hollywood before landing the role of Xander Harris in the TV series based on the 1992 film Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He portrayed the sarcastic, self-proclaimed nerd in Buffy’s Scooby Gang through all seven of the show’s beloved seasons, becoming a fan favorite along the way.
“Buffy” star Sarah Michelle Gellar remembered Brendon on social media Saturday: “‘You’ll never know how hard it is to be the one who wasn’t chosen. Living so close to the spotlight and never stepping into it. But I do. I see more than anyone understands because no one’s looking at me.’ I saw you, Nicky. I know you are at peace, in the big rocking chair in heaven.”
Actress Alyson Hannigan, who starred with Brendon in Buffy, also paid tribute to him on social media. “My dear 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,” she wrote.
Career after “Buffy”
After “Buffy,” Brendon starred opposite Bradley Cooper in the short-lived Fox sitcom “Kitchen Confidential” and had recurring roles on series such as “Criminal Minds” and “Private Practice.” On the big screen, he appeared in weird horror films, including “Psycho Beach Party” (2000), “Demon Island” (2002) and “Coherence” (2013).
However, Brendon’s later career was overshadowed by physical and psychological problems: in 2021 he had to undergo spinal operations, and a year later he suffered a heart attack as a result of a congenital heart defect. Drug and alcohol problems have resulted in legal consequences over the past 15 years, including arrests for aggravated domestic violence, robbery, criminal damage and resisting law enforcement.
“While it is no secret that Nicholas had struggled in the past, at the time of his death he was receiving medical treatment and was confident about the future,” Brendon’s family added on Friday. “Our family requests privacy at this time as we mourn his passing and celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination and heart. Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support.”
Death shortly after revival announcement
Brendon’s death comes less than a week after news that the planned revival of Buffy the Vampire Slayer was canceled – although the actor was not involved in the project.
