“Buffy the Vampire Slayer” star Nicholas Brendon—who played Xander Harris throughout the series’ seven seasons—passed away suddenly on Friday, March 20.
His family revealed in a statement shared via social media that Brendon passed away peacefully in his sleep “of natural causes.”
In the years leading to his death, however, the beloved actor dealt with a slew of health issues.
Nicholas Brendon’s Health Issues Before His Death
Brendon suffered from Cauda Equina Syndrome, which the Cleveland Clinic describes as “medical emergency that happens when an injury or herniated disk compresses nerve roots at the bottom of your spinal cord.”
After undergoing two spinal surgeries, he revealed in August 2022 that he had suffered a heart attack.
“Nicky is doing fine now but he had to be rushed to emergency about two weeks ago because of a cardiac incident (tachycardia/arrhythmia). Some of you might remember he had a similar incident after his second spinal surgery last year (for Cauda Equina) but this time,” an update shared to his Instagram at the time read. “He is trying to get a little more rest and has been concentrating on medical appointments.”
One year prior, the “Criminal Minds” star was reported to be having “deep-seated medical problems and immense pain,” according to People.
Brendon was experiencing “paralysis in his genitals” and legs, the outlet explained.
Decades earlier, shortly after filming for “Buffy” wrapped, the late star checked himself into a treatment facility for addiction.
“After realizing that I had a disease that was taking control of my life, I decided that the best way for me to regain my health was to enter a treatment facility,” he said in a statement at the time.
Nicholas Brendon Passed Away at Age 54
On Friday, March 20, Brendon’s family announced the tragic news of his passing.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes,” they shared in a statement on his Instagram.
They added, “Our family asks for privacy during this time as we grieve his loss and celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination, and heart. Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support.”
In a separate statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter, the family addressed his past medical issues, saying, “He was on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and he was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing.”
