Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Anthony Head dies at 72

Anthony Head has died: What is known

The tragic news was announced by the British actor’s daughters, Emily and Daisy Head. They said it had been an honour to be his children and to witness how his work impacted millions of viewers around the world.

The actor died peacefully, surrounded by family. The cause of death was complications caused by pneumonia.

"It has been, and forever will be, an honour and a privilege to be his daughters, and to have witnessed first-hand the impact both he and his work have had on so many," his daughters shared.

They also emphasized that Anthony deeply loved his work and felt fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with talented people.

"How lucky we are to know we are able to watch him doing what he loved, even when he is no longer with us," they said.

Anthony Head in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (still from the series)

Biography and career of the actor

Anthony Head was born in Camden, London. He began his creative career in theatre, performing in productions such as Henry V, The Importance of Being Earnest, and other classical plays.

He later gained widespread recognition for his role as Rupert Giles — the mentor of the main heroine in the series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. This role made him known worldwide.

He also appeared in the comedy show Little Britain, starred in the fantasy series Merlin and Ripper Street, as well as in the films The Iron Lady and The Inbetweeners Movie.

In recent years, he played Rupert Mannion, the former owner of a football club, in the series Ted Lasso. He also had a guest role as Lord Sheffield in season 2 of Bridgerton.

Since 1982, he has been in a relationship with Sarah Fisher. In December 2025, his partner passed away. The couple had two daughters.

Anthony Head in Ted Lasso (still from the series)