Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, passed away at the age of 54

The Criminal Minds actor’s family announced the actor’s sudden death in his “sleep” on Friday.

The statement shared by his family reads, “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes.

“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. Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans. He was passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create. Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was.”

Back in 2023, Brendon revealed that he suffered a heart attack and was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.

Mentioning the late actor’s strgigge his family stated, “While it’s no secret that Nicholas had struggles in the past, he was on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and he was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing.”

“Our family asks for privacy during this time as we grieve his loss and celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination, and heart. Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support,” the statement concluded.