As Buffy fans mourn the loss of Nicholas Alexander, Sarah Michelle Gellar has paid tribute to her fellow “Scooby gang” alum.
Following the actor’s death at age 54, the Golden Globe-nominated star of Buffy the Vampire Slayer reacted to the news with one of Xander’s memorable lines from the WB series.
“‘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,’” wrote Gellar on Instagram. “I saw you Nicky. I know you are at peace, in that big rocking chair in the sky.”
Gellar quoted a Season 7 scene between Xander and Dawn, portrayed by Michelle Trachtenberg, who died at age 39 last February.
Brendon starred as Xander for the entirety of the show’s seven-season run from 1997 to 2003. Although he was one of the few characters without supernatural powers, he helped Buffy save the world on multiple occasions.
A co-star of Brendon’s confirmed his death to Deadline on Friday, as his family shared a statement. “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon,” they said.
“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.”
The family continued, “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.”
