His family confirmed the sad news on Instagram on Friday (March 20). Brendon died peacefully in his sleep from natural causes. “We are heartbroken to announce the death of our brother and son Nicholas Brendon,” they said in a statement. Millions of fans knew him as Xander Harris, the loyal friend of vampire hunter Buffy played by Sarah Michelle Gellar.

Nicholas Brendon was Buffy’s loyal companion for seven seasons

Nicholas Brendon played the role of Xander Harris from the first to the last episode of the drama series. From 1997 to 2003 he starred alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar. As a loyal sidekick without superpowers, he became the audience’s favorite in the cult series. In addition to his two major series roles, the actor was also seen on the big screen. In 2000, he starred in the film adaptation of Charles Busch’s Psycho Beach Party, where he starred alongside Lauren Ambrose and Amy Adams.

“Buffy” star has been in poor health in recent years

The actor has struggled with significant health problems in recent years. In 2023, he suffered a heart attack in which doctors diagnosed a congenital heart defect. Additionally, Brendon suffered from cauda equina syndrome, a compression of nerve roots at the bottom of the spine.

This condition required several corrective spinal surgeries over the years. The 54-year-old had also openly struggled with addiction problems in the past. According to his family, he was undergoing treatment and taking medication to manage his diagnoses at the time of his death. However, he was optimistic about the future.

The family asked for privacy during the mourning period and thanked fans for their condolences.