‘Buffy’ Alum Nicholas Brendon Took Swipe at Sarah Michelle Gellar in Eerie Video Shared Days Before His Death
Nicholas Brendon’s Final Video: A Surprising Critique of Sarah Michelle Gellar
In a chilling and candid video posted just days before his passing, Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role as Xander Harris on the iconic TV series *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, took a pointed swipe at his former co-star Sarah Michelle Gellar. The 54-year-old actor went live on Facebook on March 14, 2026, sharing a raw and unsettling glimpse into his state of mind. Sitting outside what appeared to be his home, Brendon coughed aggressively and spoke openly about his struggles, the show’s legacy, and his complicated feelings toward Gellar.
During the 45-minute livestream, Brendon revealed his frustrations about how *Buffy* ended and expressed disappointment with the series’ trajectory in its final seasons. Most notably, he criticized Gellar’s decision to leave the show late in its run, suggesting it negatively impacted the cast, crew, and overall storyline. His remarks shed new light on behind-the-scenes tensions that fans had only speculated about before.
Details from the Video: Brendon’s Candid Reflections and Health Struggles
In the video, Brendon appeared visibly unwell, coughing up smoke and struggling to maintain composure. He explained that he had been near a fire all day due to cold weather, which aggravated his condition. Despite this, he took the opportunity to share his thoughts on *Buffy* and its cast dynamics.
Brendon said, “I believe that the way that the show ended shouldn’t have ended the way that it did.” He then took a direct jab at Sarah Michelle Gellar, who played Buffy Summers, the titular character. “Sarah… she worked really hard but she sort of f***ed the show, in a way,” he said bluntly. He elaborated that Gellar informed everyone of her departure too late, leaving the show’s creator, Joss Whedon, unprepared to adjust the storyline accordingly. “You have an arc every season… it wasn’t fair to the crew, the cast or the show,” Brendon added.
These comments stirred a wave of reactions from fans and media alike, as they offered a rare glimpse into the complexities of working on a beloved series that ended nearly two decades ago.
The Legacy of ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and the Impact of Brendon’s Remarks
*Buffy the Vampire Slayer* aired for seven seasons from 1997 to 2003, captivating audiences with its blend of supernatural drama and sharp wit. The show launched the careers of its stars, including Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, and Alyson Hannigan. Over the years, fans have remained deeply connected to the series, often debating its story arcs and character developments.
Brendon’s video reignited conversations about the show’s ending and the challenges faced by the cast. Gellar had previously spoken about her decision to leave the show, citing extreme physical and mental exhaustion. In a 2023 interview, she explained that she felt she had taken the character as far as she could. Interestingly, Gellar later attempted to revive the series, though Hulu ultimately passed on the reboot.
Brendon expressed relief at Hulu’s decision, emphasizing that any reboot should involve Joss Whedon, despite his controversial exit from Hollywood following allegations of misconduct. This stance highlighted Brendon’s complex feelings about the show’s creative direction and the people involved.
Reactions from Family, Fans, and Sarah Michelle Gellar
Following Brendon’s death, his family confirmed he passed away peacefully in his sleep due to natural causes. They requested privacy as they mourned the loss of a man described as living “with intensity, imagination, and heart.”
Sarah Michelle Gellar responded to Brendon’s passing with a heartfelt Instagram post, quoting his character’s poignant words: “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
