Hollywood actor found dead in Putnam County

Friday, March 27, 2026 at 7:36 AM

By Staff report

A Hollywood actor who had appeared on both "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Criminal Minds" was found dead recently in Putnam County.

According to a statement from Putnam County Coroner Todd Zeiner, Nicholas Brendon, 54, died of natural causes in his sleep on March 20. Zeiner said Brendon's body was positioned as if asleep when it was found.

"The decedent resided alone and was discovered by a longtime friend who had been staying overnight to provide care. Evidence indicated the time of death was very recent. Investigators are reviewing recently posted videos as potential evidence of prior illness," Zeiner said in a statement that was sent to national and international media as well.

In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Brendon's family talked about a diagnosis and health issues.

"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 family statement read.

According to reports, Brendon was arrested in Terre Haute in August of 2021. Pulled over while driving erratically a subsequent search by police and police found bags with crystal residue powder in them. A police dog search located secret compartments cut into the floor of the car containing additional bags with residue. He eventually reached a plea agreement in that case.

Nicholas resided in Madison Township.

He got his breakthrough in Hollywood appearing as Xander Harris on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and later as Kevin Lynch on "Criminal Minds."