British actor Anthony Head, best known for his roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Ted Lasso,” has passed away at the age of 72, as confirmed by his family on Friday. Head’s daughters, Emily and Daisy Head, revealed that the actor had complications from pneumonia.
In the 1980s, Head gained popularity on British television as part of a romantic duo in Nescafé instant coffee ads. He later reprised these ads for the American audience with Taster’s Choice. His breakthrough role came as Rupert Giles, the mentor to the lead character in the beloved supernatural TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” which aired from 1997 to 2003.
More recently, Head portrayed Rupert Mannion, the antagonistic ex-husband of Hannah Waddingham’s character, in “Ted Lasso.” His daughters expressed their profound sorrow over his passing but emphasized that his legacy will endure through the shows he was a part of and the fans who cherish them.
Born in London on February 20, 1954, to Seafield Head and Helen Shingler, both involved in the entertainment industry, Head came from a family with a background in film and acting. Apart from his iconic roles, he played Geoffrey Howe in “The Iron Lady,” alongside Meryl Streep, and took on various characters in shows like “Little Britain” and “Merlin.”
Throughout his career, Head showcased his versatility by appearing in TV series, plays, and musicals. He also shared his musical talent as a singer. In 2025, Head’s partner, animal welfare activist Sarah Fisher, passed away at the age of 61.
Anthony Head’s contributions to the entertainment world will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike, reflecting his passion for his craft and the impact he made throughout his career.