Nicholas Brendon, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” star, has died at the age of 54, according to a statement posted via Instagram on Friday.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes,” his family wrote, noting that “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 statement continued. “Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans.
The statement added that Brendon 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. 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.”
The family concluded by asking for privacy as they “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.”
Co-star Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow Rosenberg in the series, “liked” the social media statement on Friday afternoon.
Brendon starred in the beloved vampire series alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar, Charisma Carpenter, David Boreanaz, and Hannigan from 1997 to 2003, playing Xander Harris.
In 2023, Brendon revealed he experienced a heart attack and was subsequently diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.
The actor also battled cauda equina syndrome, for which he underwent multiple spinal surgeries.
This is a developing story and will be updated….
