LOS ANGELES, California — Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role as Xander Harris on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” has died at age 54, his family confirmed on Saturday, March 21.
Brendon passed away in his sleep of natural causes, according to a statement shared on the actor’s Instagram page. His family described him as “passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create.”
“While it’s no secret that Nicholas had struggles in the past, he was on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing,” the statement said.
Brendon had previously faced substance abuse and depression, legal troubles, and was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect and cauda equina syndrome. His family requested privacy as they mourn and celebrate his life.
Beyond his iconic role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Brendon appeared in television series including “Criminal Minds” and “Kitchen Confidential”, and in films such as “Psycho Beach Party,” “Coherence,” and “Attack of the Morningside Monster.”
