English actor Anthony Head, known for his roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and the BBC One’s series “Merlin”, has died at 72.
Anthony Head passed away on June 1, 2026 from complications of pneumonia, as confirmed by a statement from his daughters, Emily and Daisy.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our extraordinary father,” the statement said. “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.”
The announcement prompted tributes from fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry, who remembered Head for his talent and professionalism. Anthony Head began his acting career in the late 1970s in British theatre and television.
He gained international recognition in the late 1990s as Rupert Giles, the watchful mentor to Buffy Summers, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar, in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He also appeared in films including “The Genetic Opera”, “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance”, “The Iron Lady”, and “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters”, among others.
From 2020 to 2023, he starred as Rupert Mannion in Ted Lasso. As the wealthy former owner of AFC Richmond and ex-husband of Rebecca Welton, played by Hannah Waddingham, Head delivered one of the show’s most notable character arcs.
Across four decades, Head worked in drama, comedy, and musical theatre. His death marks the end of a distinguished career that left a lasting impression on British and international audiences.