Nicholas Brendon, 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' star, dies at 54

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FILE: Actor Nicholas Brendon attends Wizard World Comic Con Philadelphia 2017 - Day 2 at Pennsylvania Convention Center on June 2, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images)

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Nicholas Brendon, the actor best known for his role as Xander in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," has died.

Brendon’s family confirmed his death on social media. He was 54 years old.

Nicholas Brendon’s death

What we know:

Brendon’s Facebook page, he died "in his sleep of natural causes."

What we don't know:

His official cause of death has not been released.

What they're saying:

"Most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he brought to life over the years," his family said in a statement. "In recent years Nicky has found his passion in painting and art," the family added. "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. 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."