Buffy the Vampire Slayer Stars Pay Tribute to Buffy Co-Star Nicholas Brendon

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Nicholas Brendon, the actor, sadly passed away on March 20th at the age of 54, his family confirmed. News of his death quickly spread, and his former colleagues began sharing their reactions.

Brendon played Xander Harris, a key character in the popular fantasy series. As one of Buffy Summers’ closest friends and a member of the core group known as the Scooby Gang, Xander often voiced his opinions about Buffy’s romantic relationships, especially her boyfriend Angel. He appeared in every season of the seven-season show.

Sarah Michelle Gellar, David Boreanaz & Alyson Hannigan Reacted to Nicholas Brendon’s Death

Gellar posted an old, happy photo of herself with Brendon, along with a touching message. Like her, the Cruel Intentions actress quoted a line from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. She had previously played Buffy’s sister, Dawn, on the show.

In her remembrance, Gellar quoted a line from a touching speech Xander once gave to Dawn. He said, ‘It’s hard being the one who always gets overlooked, standing so close to success but never quite reaching it. But I understand. I notice things others don’t, because no one is really paying attention to me.’

Gellar shared a personal message with the post, saying, “I saw you, Nicky. I hope you’re finally at peace, relaxing in your favorite rocking chair in the sky.”

Emmy Boreanaz, known for his role as Angel, shared a touching old photo of himself and Kristy Swanson hugging and smiling, along with a heartfelt tribute. Fans particularly appreciated the post given past rumors of a strained relationship between the two actors. These rumors stemmed from Swanson’s comments about the ‘Angel’ spinoff series, her own personal difficulties, and reports of tension between them during a photoshoot for Entertainment Weekly.

One Instagram commenter praised the thoughtful tribute, noting it was especially meaningful considering the two people hadn’t always been close. They added that while time has passed, the loss likely still feels painful.

Hannigan posted a touching tribute, sharing a photo from Buffy the Vampire Slayer that reminded her of a time when Xander helped Willow. She wrote a message to Nicky, thanking him for years of laughter, love, and his support of the Dodgers. She added that she’ll always think of him when she sees a rocking chair, and finished with a heartfelt ‘I love you. Rest in peace.’

Emma Caufield, who played Anya on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared a touching photo and message remembering her friend, Nicky. She recalled watching an old video of them together at a comic con and how Nicky always made her laugh. Caufield expressed gratitude for Nicky’s immediate welcoming spirit and how difficult it was to stay serious around him. She ended with a heartfelt goodbye, saying she’ll miss him and hopes he’s found peace.

Nicholas Brendon’s Cause of Death Hasn’t Been Disclosed

I was so shocked to hear about Nicholas Brendon’s health struggles, especially considering how young he is. He’s always been so open about battling addiction, and learning he’d had a heart attack and been diagnosed with a congenital heart defect in 2023 was really upsetting. On top of that, he’s also had multiple spinal surgeries because of cauda equina syndrome. It’s just a lot to process, and I really hope he’s getting the support he needs.

I was so saddened to hear about Brendon’s passing. He was incredibly brave to share his battles with addiction and mental health, even opening up about it on Dr. Phil back in 2015. His family announced the news on social media, and while they were understandably heartbroken, they asked for privacy as they grieve. They didn’t share any further details, and I respect their need for space during this difficult time.

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2026-03-21 20:07