Nicholas Brendon was not alone at the time of his passing.
The actor, known for his role in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” was discovered dead on March 20 at his residence in New York, with a close friend present.
Putnam County Coroner Todd Zeiner confirmed that the friend had stayed overnight to assist the 54-year-old actor and was the one who found him.
According to a statement from Zeiner, “The decedent resided alone and was discovered by a longtime friend who had been staying overnight to provide care. Evidence indicated the time of death was very recent. Investigators are reviewing recently posted videos as potential evidence of prior illness.”
Authorities reported that Brendon appeared to have passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Zeiner shared that when he was found, the actor was “positioned as if asleep.” The name of the friend has not been disclosed, and final autopsy results are still awaited.
Brendon’s family believes he succumbed to natural causes linked to ongoing health issues, including cauda equina syndrome and congenital heart defects.
In a heartfelt statement, his family mentioned, “While it’s no secret that Nicholas had struggles in the past, he was on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and he was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing. 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.”
Best known for his role as Xander Harris alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar, Brendon was remembered fondly by former co-stars.
Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow Rosenberg, shared, “My Sweet Nicky, thank you for years of laughter, love and Dodgers. I will think of you every time I see a rocking chair. I love you. RIP.”
Emma Caulfield, known for her role as Anya Jenkins, also posted a tribute, saying, “Rest Nicky. Rest. I love you.”
