Actor Anthony Head Dies at 72, Famous for Buffy Role
Anthony Head, the British actor known for his work on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Ted Lasso,” died on Friday at the age of 72. The family confirmed that the cause was complications from pneumonia. The actor was born in London on February 20, 1954, the son of documentary filmmaker Seafield Head and actor Helen Shingler, and the brother of fellow actor Murray Head.
Head began his career in the 1980s with a memorable role in a series of Nescafe Gold Blend coffee commercials that were later adapted for the U.S. market. He later gained international recognition playing the wise librarian Rupert Giles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” from 1997 to 2003. In his final years he portrayed Rupert Mannion, an antagonist on “Ted Lasso.”
Other notable performances include the depiction of Geoffrey Howe in “The Iron Lady,” a cameo in “Little Britain,” and the role of King Uther Pendragon in the “Merlin” television series. Head also appeared in “Merlin,” “Motherland,” “Manchild,” and “Silent Witness,” and performed in stage productions and musical recordings.
He was survived by his daughters, actresses Emily and Daisy Head. The family issued a statement expressing their gratitude that they could see him work until his passing.
Head had previously lost his long‑time partner, animal welfare activist Sarah Fisher, in 2025.