Family shares statement and cause of deathMourning for “Buffy” star – Nicholas Brendon was only 54 years old

March 21, 2026 around 09:20 Clock

Nicholas Brendon “died in his sleep of natural causes”

The sad news of Brendon's death was shared by his family on Nicholas Brendon's social media profiles on Saturday (March 21). In addition to three pictures, she published a written statement in which she also revealed the cause of death.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He died in his sleep of natural causes”it says. The family emphasizes that “most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he has brought to life over the years.” In recent years he has also “discovered his passion for painting and art”. He was “passionate, sensitive and constantly driven by the urge to create”.

“Those who really knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of his being,” it continued. “It is no secret that Nicholas had struggled in the past, but he was taking medication and undergoing treatment to cope with his diagnosis and was optimistic about the future at the time of his death.”

Nicholas Brendon: celebrated actor, drug escapades, violent outbursts

Nicholas Brendon starred in the popular vampire series from 1997 to 2003 alongside colleagues such as Sarah Michelle Gellar, Charisma Carpenter, David Boreanaz, Seth Green, Anthony Stewart Head and Alyson Hannigan.

He later attracted attention through various incidents. He suffered from alcohol and drug problems and repeatedly came into conflict with the law. In 2015 he was arrested several times for violent outbursts. His health also bothered him: In 2022, Brendon announced that he had suffered a heart attack and was subsequently diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. The actor also suffered from cauda equina syndrome, which required him to undergo several spinal surgeries.

“Buffy” co-star says goodbye publicly

Co-star Alyson Hannigan (51) – also known from “American Pie” (stream all films on RTL+) or “How I Met Your Mother” – played the role of Willow Rosenberg in all seven seasons of “Buffy”. She shared a photo from season 6 of the series on her Instagram account.

She writes about it: “My dear Nicky, thank you for all the years of laughter, love and Dodgers”. And further: “I will always think of you when I see a rocking chair. I love you. Rest in peace.”

Nicholas Brendon also appeared in guest roles in other well-known series, including “Criminal Minds”, “Private Practice”, “An awfully nice family” (stream on RTL+) and “Kitchen Confidential.” His last role was in the 2021 film “Wanton Want”. (spot on/vho)

Source used: Spot on news