Buffy the Vampire Slayer's cast are paying tribute to Nicholas Brendon following his death at age 54. The actor's family announced in a statement shared with Us Weekly on Friday, March 20, that Brendon had died "in his sleep of natural causes." "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. "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 has found his passion in painting and art.