Nicholas Brendon’s Co-Stars from ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Share Heartfelt Tributes to Their Friend Xander

As fans and loved ones mourn the passing of Nicholas Brendon, his co-stars from Buffy the Vampire Slayer have begun to share heartfelt tributes.

Brendon died at the age of 54, prompting cast members from the beloved WB series (1997-2003) to reflect on their cherished memories of the actor, who famously portrayed Xander Harris.

Alyson Hannigan, who played Xander’s best friend, Willow Rosenberg, expressed her sorrow on Instagram, writing, “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, who portrayed Anya, Xander’s ex-demon fiancée, shared a video in which Brendon discusses their duet, “I’ll Never Tell,” from the iconic Season 6 musical episode, “Once More, With Feeling.” In her Instagram Story, she lamented, “My heart is heavy. I can’t put into words just how this has hit me. Let this clip of us giving it our all be a placeholder. Rest Nicky. Rest. I love you.”

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Brendon became a household name during the series’ seven-season run, adeptly portraying Xander Harris, the nerdy best friend of the titular slayer, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar, as they faced supernatural challenges together with their friend Willow.

In February, fellow cast member Michelle Trachtenberg, who played Willow’s sister Dawn Summers, also passed away at the age of 39.

Brendon’s family confirmed his death, stating, “He passed in his sleep of natural causes. Most people know Nicky for his work as an actor, and for the characters he brought to life over the years. In recent years, Nicky 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, “Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was. 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.”