Exclusive: The cause of death for ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ star Nicholas Brendon has been revealed

Nicholas Brendon’s cause of death has now been disclosed following his passing on March 20 in Indiana. According to an autopsy report obtained exclusively by Page Six, the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” actor succumbed to atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with acute pneumonia and a previous heart attack as additional factors.

Atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease occurs when high blood pressure damages artery walls, leading to the accelerated buildup of plaque inside the arteries, resulting in narrowed blood vessels that impede blood flow. On the other hand, acute pneumonia is a sudden lung infection that causes inflammation and fluid or pus to accumulate in the lung’s air sacs.

The critical blockage in Brendon’s right coronary artery, determined as the primary mechanic of his natural death, was found to be at 90 percent. After examining the autopsy results, Putnam County Coroner Todd Zeiner reported, “Autopsy demonstrated an adult male with a markedly enlarged heart, severe stenosis of the right coronary artery, moderate stenosis of the left anterior descending and left circumflex arteries, acute pneumonia and inflammation of the small bowel. The small bowel inflammation is most likely secondary to ischemic changes related to the cardiogenic shock.”

It was Brendon’s long-time friend and manager, Theresa Fortier, who discovered him in a sleeping position on the couch and promptly called 911 just before 8:30 a.m. local time. Zeiner, recounting the incident, noted, “There was no resuscitation attempt made due to obvious signs of death. I presumed time of death was around 6 a.m. due to body temperature and rigor mortis/livor mortis signs.”

Despite observing no signs of foul play at the scene, Zeiner pointed out that Brendon appeared to have been struggling with several health issues. These issues included persistent coughing, chest pain complaints, and noticeable physical changes like a raspy voice. In relation to this, Theresa Fortier urged Brendon to seek medical attention for his chest pain, a suggestion Brendon declined due to his recent back surgery and concerns about being a long-time smoker.

Furthermore, it was reported that Brendon was renovating his residence, where he was found, and several videos he shared with fans from his back deck hinted at his deteriorating health and declining physical condition.

In response to his passing, Brendon’s family shared their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received. They acknowledged Brendon’s struggles with addiction in the past and his efforts towards treatment and recovery but also emphasized his creative talents and enthusiasm for art. Concluding their statement, they asked for privacy to process their loss and celebrate the life of a man remembered for his passion, sensitivity, drive, and creative spirit.

In summary, Nicholas Brendon’s cause of death was a combination of atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease along with other medical complications. Despite his challenges, Brendon was a beloved actor and artist who left behind a legacy of creativity and passion that touched the lives of many.