I had the opportunity to talk with Nicholas Brendon, AKA Xander, on writing for his unforgettable character, the Buffy comics, season 10, Joss Whedon, acid-urine and his love for boobies!
Keeping it short and relatively sweet, here is what he had to say…
DB: It is kind of ironic that you were the most comical part of the show, and you have now, in one sense, become the comic-creator of the show! Do you feel you can bring more to the comic since being on the front-line with Buffy and co’ for so long?
NB: Yes. For 8 years I was Xander and he was me. That at least qualifies me more so to write for Xander.
DB: Since writing the comic, have you turned to any of the cast members for advice?
NB: I haven’t turned to any of the others for advice yet. I’ve been grasping at straws.
DB: How do they all feel about your involvement with the comic?
NB: OMG, they’re so jealous! (laughs)
DB: How does being a comic-creator compare to your career as an actor?
NB: It’s really apples and oranges. There’s not really a common thread other than both being Buffy related. They are both so different.
DB: You already believe that you and Xander share many similarities… What three defining qualities do you think you share the most?
NB:
- Love for boobies
- Love for boobies
- LOVE for boobies
DB: In your opinion, are there any real differences between TV-show Xander and comic-book Xander?
NB: Yeah, the dimensions of the characters. Comic book Xander has more responsibility and is trying to better himself.
DB: Are there any parts of the stories that you feel particularly proud of writing so far?
NB: There’s something coming up that I can’t talk about yet. But I’m really proud of it!
DB: How does working as part of a collective of creators affect how you choose to portray the characters and the stories?
NB: Whatever Joss Whedon says, I do. That’s about as collective as it can get.
DB: Which characters do you find easiest to identify with when writing them and why?
NB: Xander, obviously and Kid Giles, because I’m a bit of a kid. And sometimes Andrew and Anya, cuz I’m a little bit gay and a little bit of that kind of woman.
DB: How well do you feel you have adapted to working in such a different medium?
NB: Season 10 buffy is very true to the TV series. I didn’t write season 8, so I can’t speak for that. Season 10 is more focused on character development and emotions and how the characters get along.
DB: Christos Gage recently told us about how close your partnership was at Dark-Horse. How would you describe your work ethics as a team?
NB: Very close. Strong. Like bull.
DB: Finally, what would be your weapon of choice when facing the creatures of the night?
NB: My weapon of choice would be………acid urine.
DB: Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me. We wish you all the best on your comic-adventures!
NB: Thank YOU so much!
Interview by Dylan Butcher 
