Beloved Actor’s Cause Of Death Revealed

Nicholas Brendon wasn’t alone when he died.

The “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” alum was found dead on March 20 at his New York home, with a close friend nearby, according to local officials.

Putnam County Coroner Todd Zeiner said the friend had been staying overnight to care for the 54-year-old actor and was the one who discovered him.

“The decedent resided alone and was discovered by a longtime friend who had been staying overnight to provide care,” Zeiner told People in a March 25 statement. “Evidence indicated the time of death was very recent. Investigators are reviewing recently posted videos as potential evidence of prior illness.”

Authorities said Brendon appeared to have died in his sleep.

According to Zeiner, the actor was “positioned as if asleep” when he was found. The identity of the friend has not been released, and final autopsy results are still pending.

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Brendon’s family said they believe he died of natural causes tied to ongoing health issues, including cauda equina syndrome and congenital heart defects.

“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,” his family said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter on March 20. “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.”

Brendon was best known for playing Xander Harris on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar. In the days after his death, former co-stars shared emotional tributes.

“My Sweet Nicky, thank you for years of laughter, love and Dodgers,” Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow Rosenberg, wrote in a statement. “I will think of you every time I see a rocking chair. I love you. RIP.”

Emma Caulfield, who portrayed Anya Jenkins, added in a since-expired post, “Rest Nicky. Rest. I love you.”

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