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American actor Nicholas Brendon, famous for his leading role in the cult series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, has died at the age of 54.
His family added: “He was passionate, sensitive and constantly driven to create. Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was.
“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, Nicky has found his passion for painting and art.”
Brendon played Xander Harris on Buffy the Vampire Slayer for seven seasons between 1997 and 2003 – best friend to the main character played by Sarah Michelle Gellar. A planned Buffy reboot has been canceled, Gellar announced to fans on Instagram earlier this month.
The Los Angeles-born actor received three Emmy nominations for his role in Buffy, two for Best Television Actor and one for Best Supporting Actor.
Brendon’s twin brother, Kelly Donovan Schultz, also acted as his brother’s body double in two episodes of Buffy.
He also performed alongside Alyson Hannigan, who shared a tribute in an Instagram post. She wrote: “My sweet Nicky, thank you for the years of laughter, love and the Dodgers. I will think of you every time I see a rocking chair. I love you. RIP.”
After Buffy, Brendon appeared on various shows including Criminal Minds, Private Practice and Kitchen Confidential.
His film credits also include Psycho Beach Party, Big Gay Love and Redwood.
Brendon has spoken openly about his health issues, including a heart attack, and has undergone two spinal surgeries for cauda equina syndrome, a rare condition that can affect movement as well as bladder and bowel function.
The actor also lived with a stutter, later championing the cause as a spokesperson for the Stuttering Foundation of America.
The late actor had also spoken about his struggles with drug addiction, alcoholism and mental health.
His family told The Hollywood Reporter: “While it’s no secret that Nicholas has struggled in the past, he was taking medication and treatment to manage his diagnosis and was optimistic about the future at the time of his death.”
