Fans and loved ones finally know what caused the death of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” actor Nicholas Brendon more than a month after his passing.
Brendon died from heart disease, with pneumonia and a prior heart attack listed as contributing factors, according to a newly released autopsy report.
The report, obtained by Us Weekly, found that Brendon died from atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease. Acute pneumonia and a previous myocardial infarction — commonly known as a heart attack — were also listed as contributing conditions.
The autopsy determined Brendon’s death was from natural causes. According to the report, the actor had a 90% blockage in his right coronary artery.
Todd Zeiner of the Putnam County Coroner’s Office told People magazine that toxicology results are still pending, but investigators found “no obvious signs of foul play.”
“Nothing seemed out of place or disturbed,” Zeiner told the outlet.
Zeiner said Brendon’s longtime friend, Theresa Fortier, was at the actor’s home when he died and was the person who called 911.
According to the coroner’s report cited by People, Fortier said Brendon had recently been suffering from a persistent cough and chest pain.
“She recommended a hospital, but he declined,” Zeiner wrote in the report.
The report also stated Brendon was a longtime smoker and had previously suffered a heart attack several years earlier but declined additional treatment at the time.
Brendon died in his sleep on Friday, March 20, at the age of 54, as Puget Press reported.
His family confirmed his death in a statement shared shortly afterward. “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon,” they wrote.
Brendon became widely known for playing Xander Harris, the sarcastic but loyal best friend on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” appearing throughout the show’s seven-season run.
He later appeared on series including “Criminal Minds” and “Kitchen Confidential,” while also developing a cult following through films like “Psycho Beach Party.”
In recent years, Brendon focused heavily on painting and art, according to his family.
“Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans,” the statement read. “He was passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create.”
The actor also publicly discussed longtime struggles involving substance abuse and mental health challenges, which led to multiple arrests over the years. In later interviews, he spoke openly about seeking treatment and improving his health.
Brendon suffered a heart attack in 2023 and had been diagnosed with a congenital heart defect, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He also dealt with cauda equina syndrome, a serious spinal condition that resulted in multiple surgeries.
Following news of his death, former co-star Alyson Hannigan shared a tribute on Instagram.
“My Sweet Nicky, thank you for years of laughter, love and Dodgers,” Hannigan wrote. “I will think of you every time I see a rocking chair.”
Brendon is survived by his identical twin brother, Kelly Donovan, who also appeared in episodes of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”
