Sarah Michelle Gellar has paid tribute to her Buffy The Vampire Slayer co-star Nicholas Brendon, who has died at the age of 54. Brendon's family announced his death on social media on Friday, stating he passed away in his sleep from natural causes.
Gellar, 48, shared a photo on Instagram to her five million followers, writing: 'They'll never know how tough it is to be the one who isn't chosen. To live so near to the spotlight, and never step in it. But I know. I see more than anybody realizes, because nobody's watching me. I saw you Nicky. I know you are at peace, in that big rocking chair in the sky.'
David Boreanaz, who played Angel on the show, posted a picture of the pair and described Brendon as 'real', adding: 'We don't always get to choose how long someone stays in the story, only that they were here. And he was… Rest easy brother.' Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow, wrote: 'My Sweet Nicky, thank you for years of laughter, love and Dodgers. I will think of you every time I see a rocking chair.'
Brendon was best known for his role as Xander Harris on the cult supernatural drama, which aired from 1997 to 2003. After the show ended, he had recurring roles on Criminal Minds and appeared in films including Psycho Beach Party. He was open about his health struggles, including a heart attack and spinal surgery, as well as addiction and mental health issues.
His family said in a statement: '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.'
