health
Nicholas Brendon, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" actor, dies at 54
March 20, 2026 / 10:33 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Nicholas Brendon, famous for playing Xander Harris in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," has died at 54.
- His family confirmed his death, attributing it to natural causes and mentioning his recent passion for painting.
- Brendon also had roles in "Criminal Minds," "Private Practice," and "Faking It," among other TV shows and films.
- He was open about his past struggles with alcoholism, substance abuse, and depression, but was reportedly managing his health.
- Born in Los Angeles in 1971, he initially pursued acting to help with a stutter and became a spokesperson for the Stuttering Foundation of America.