'Buffy' star Nicholas Brendon's cause of death revealed

Key Points:

• Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role as Xander Harris on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," died on March 20 at age 54 from atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with acute pneumonia and a prior heart attack as contributing factors.
• The Putnam County Coroner's report revealed Brendon had a 90% blockage in his right coronary artery, a markedly enlarged heart, and moderate blockage in some left arteries, alongside small bowel inflammation.
• Brendon had a history of serious health issues, including a congenital heart defect diagnosed in 2022, multiple spinal surgeries for cauda equina syndrome following a 2021 fall, and was a longtime smoker experiencing chest pain and a persistent cough before his death.
• The coroner confirmed there were no signs of foul play, and Brendon had declined further medical treatment, with his manager Theresa Fortier notifying authorities of his passing due to his declining health.
• Besides "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," Brendon was also known for roles in TV series such as "Criminal Minds," "Without a Trace," "Private Practice," and "Kitchen Confidential."