British actor Anthony Head, best known for his roles in TV shows like “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, shared that he had complications from pneumonia.
In the 1980s, Head gained recognition in the UK as part of a romantic duo in Nescafé instant coffee advertisements, which were later adapted for American audiences as Taster’s Choice commercials. He rose to fame portraying librarian Rupert Giles in the popular supernatural series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” from 1997 to 2003.
Most recently, Head portrayed Rupert Mannion, the antagonistic ex-husband of Rebecca, played by Hannah Waddingham, in “Ted Lasso.” His daughters expressed their sorrow over his passing but emphasized that his legacy lives on through his work and the fans who cherish it.
Born on February 20, 1954, in London to Seafield Head and Helen Shingler, both involved in the entertainment industry, Head came from a family of performers. He also notably played Geoffrey Howe in the film “The Iron Lady,” alongside Meryl Streep.
Throughout his career, Head took on various roles, including a prime minister in “Little Britain” and King Uther Pendragon in the TV series “Merlin.” He appeared in productions like “Motherland,” “Manchild,” and “Silent Witness,” and showcased his singing talent through music recordings.
In 2025, Head’s longtime partner, animal welfare activist Sarah Fisher, passed away at the age of 61. Anthony Head’s contributions to the entertainment industry and his versatile performances will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.