Nicholas Brendon, the actor best known for playing Xander Harris on *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, has died at the age of 54. His family announced that he died in his sleep, while later reporting from the coroner determined that his death was from natural causes. The news prompted an outpouring of memories from fans who had followed his career for decades and remembered him as one of the most familiar faces from the popular television series.
For many viewers, Brendon will always be associated with Xander Harris, the witty and sometimes uncertain friend who stood beside Buffy and the rest of the Scooby Gang. Unlike many characters in the supernatural world of the series, Xander had no special powers, relying instead on loyalty, humor, courage, and friendship. Brendon appeared in nearly every episode during the show’s seven-season run, helping make Xander one of its most recognizable and relatable characters.