Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role as Xander Harris in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, has had his cause of death confirmed following his passing at the age of 54.
The actor died on 20 March at his home in Indiana. At the time, his family said he passed away peacefully in his sleep from natural causes.
An autopsy report later obtained by Us Weekly and Page Six revealed that Brendon died from atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened, placing strain on the heart.
The report also listed acute pneumonia and a prior heart attack as contributing factors. It further noted a significant 90 per cent blockage in his right coronary artery. His death was officially ruled natural.
According to People, the Putnam County Coroner’s Office is still awaiting toxicology results. Coroner Todd Zeiner stated there were no signs of foul play and that nothing at the scene suggested anything other than a natural death. He also confirmed that family members reported a history of cardiac issues.
Brendon had previously been open about his health struggles, including substance abuse. In 2023, he revealed that he had suffered a heart attack and had been diagnosed with a congenital heart condition.
Following his death, his family released a statement expressing their grief, remembering him not only for his acting career but also for his artistic work in later years.
“Most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he brought to life over the years,” the statement read. “In recent years, Nicky has found his passion in painting and art. Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans. He was passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create.”
They added that they wished for privacy as they mourned his loss and celebrated his life.
Brendon was widely recognized for portraying Xander Harris across all seven seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which aired from 1997 to 2003, alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar and Alyson Hannigan.