Share this @internewscast.com
Nicholas Brendon, the actor fondly remembered for his role as Xander Harris, Buffy Summers’ loyal sidekick in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” has died at the age of 54. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 20, a statement from his family has confirmed.
The WB
In a heartfelt message shared with The Hollywood Reporter, the Brendon family expressed their sorrow, stating, “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon.” They described his death as resulting from natural causes. While acknowledging the personal challenges Brendon faced, they shared that he was under treatment and hopeful about his future. The family requested privacy, asking for understanding and support as they mourn the loss of a man who lived with great passion and creativity.
Earlier in 2023, Brendon disclosed that he had suffered a heart attack, leading doctors to discover a congenital heart defect. His health struggles also included cauda equina syndrome, necessitating multiple spinal surgeries.
Beyond his iconic role in “Buffy,” Nicholas Brendon captivated audiences with several cult favorite appearances. He starred as the charming Starcat in the quirky surf-comedy-horror film “Psycho Beach Party,” sharing the screen with Lauren Ambrose and Amy Adams. Fans also recognized him for his portrayal of Kevin Lynch in “Criminal Minds,” his role in the short-lived “Kitchen Confidential,” and as the voice of Huntsboy #89 in “American Dragon: Jake Long.”
Brendon’s final credited appearance was in the 2024 film “Christmas Slasher,” where he played Mr. Gregory. In recent years, he had embraced roles in B-movies, particularly within the horror genre, and developed a passion for art and painting. Survived by his twin brother Kelly and other family members, Nicholas Brendon leaves behind a legacy cherished by “Buffy” fans for his memorable portrayal of a character who could oscillate between endearing and infuriating, depending on the episode and the viewer’s perspective.
Nicholas Brendon also appeared in cult films and became an artist later in life
Michael Caulfield Archive/Getty Images
Besides playing Xander in all seven seasons of “Buffy,” Nicholas Brendon had several popular cult roles on his resume. He was handsome surfer Starcat to Lauren Ambrose’s tomboyish Chicklet in the wild surf-comedy-horror picture “Psycho Beach Party,” a cult classic which also featured an early role for Amy Adams. He also played Kevin Lynch in 21 episodes of “Criminal Minds,” Seth in the short-lived show “Kitchen Confidential,” and voiced Huntsboy #89 in “American Dragon: Jake Long.”
Brendon’s last credited role was in 2024’s “Christmas Slasher,” where he played Mr. Gregory. In recent years he’d been appearing in a healthy number of B-movies, mainly horror films, and had also become dedicated to art and painting. He’s survived by his twin brother, Kelly, among other relatives, and will be missed by “Buffy” fans far and wide for the way he brought a character who was both lovable and also easily hateable — depending on the episode and fans’ moods — in equal measures.
