Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Nicholas Brendon has died, aged 54.
The actor, who starred as Buffy Summers' best friend Xander Harris on all seven seasons of the supernatural drama, died today.
In a statement, his family said they were "heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon".
Brendon died in his sleep of natural causes.
While best known for his work as an actor, Brendon had "found his passion in painting and art" in recent years, his family said.
"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."
His loved ones asked for privacy while they "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."
Buffy co-star Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow Rosenberg, took to social media to pay tribute to Brendon.
"My Sweet Nicky, thank you for years of laughter, love and Dodgers. I will think of you every time I see a rocking chair. I love you. RIP."
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