Instagram/Nicholas Brendon TV Nicholas Brendon, Buffy's Xander Harris, dies at 54. Family shares heartfelt statement on his life, health struggles, and recent passion for art. March 21, 2026 AceShowbiz - The family of Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role as Xander Harris on the hit TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, announced his passing on March 20, 2026. He was 54 years old. In the years leading up to his death, Brendon faced numerous health challenges, including a congenital heart defect and cauda equina syndrome.