‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ star Nicholas Brendon dies at 54

(Gray News) - Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” died Friday, loved ones said.

He was 54.

In a statement posted on Brendon’s official Facebook page, his family said the actor died in his sleep.

“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes,” the statement read. “Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans. He was passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create.”

Brendon was nominated for several awards during his time on the popular TV series that ran from 1997 to 2003.

Following the end of the show, Variety reports that Brendon had publicly struggled with addiction and mental illness. He announced at a 2004 fan convention that he was entering rehab for alcoholism.

The Los Angeles native also continued his acting career, appearing in multiple episodes of “Criminal Minds” and in movies such as “Demon Island” and “Unholy.”

“Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was,” his loved ones said. “Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support.”