The cause of Nicholas Brendon’s death, known for his role in *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, has been disclosed. He passed away unexpectedly in March at the age of 54.
A coroner’s report indicated that natural causes were to blame. More specifically, the autopsy pointed to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with acute pneumonia and a past myocardial infarction also contributing factors.
Putnam County Coroner Todd Zeiner mentioned that authorities arrived at Brendon’s home at around 9:20 a.m. on March 20. Officials reported no obvious signs of foul play upon their arrival.
First responders got the call around 8:21 a.m. after Theresa Fortier, a longtime friend of Brendon’s, reported the situation. She had been staying at his place due to his declining health and found him unresponsive when she woke. The last time she saw him was around 5 a.m., when she heard him cough.
Medical personnel arrived and confirmed he was deceased, citing obvious signs of death. Zeiner indicated that the time of death was estimated to be around 6 a.m.
Law enforcement noted there were no indications of foul play and helped to assess the scene, which they described as orderly. According to the report, Fortier mentioned Brendon had been experiencing a persistent cough and was using over-the-counter meds to treat it, despite complaining of chest pain and not wanting to go to the hospital.
Brendon’s family released a statement confirming his death. They expressed their sadness at the loss, describing him as a passionate artist who enjoyed painting and had shared his talents with friends and fans. They acknowledged that he had faced health issues in the past but was reportedly optimistic about his future.
After his passing, friends and former co-stars took to social media to honor him. Sarah Michelle Gellar, who played Buffy Summers, reflected on his struggle, saying, “They’ll never know how hard it is to be the unchosen one.” On a more personal note, actress Alyson Hannigan thanked him for the laughter they shared and expressed love in her tribute.
Additionally, Brendon had revealed in 2023 that he experienced a heart attack in 2022 and that he had undergone multiple spinal surgeries. He had also disclosed a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome, which involves nerve root compression at the lower spinal cord affecting leg movement and sensation.
