Actor Anthony Head speaks for the BBC portion of the Television Critics Association Press Tour at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on July 13, 2007 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images) (Photo by FREDERICK M. BROWN / Getty Images North America / Getty Images via AFP)
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At a glance
- British actor Anthony Head, known for "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Ted Lasso," has died at age 72.
- His family confirmed he passed away from complications of pneumonia, surrounded by relatives.
- Head had a prolific career spanning decades, with notable roles in "Merlin" and "Little Britain."
British actor Anthony Head, celebrated for his diverse roles in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Ted Lasso," and "Merlin," has died at the age of 72. His family confirmed his passing on Friday, stating that he succumbed to complications from pneumonia while surrounded by loved ones.
Head achieved international recognition for his portrayal of Rupert Giles in the popular supernatural drama "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" during the late 1990s. His career continued with memorable performances in the BBC fantasy series "Merlin," where he played King Uther Pendragon, and the sketch comedy "Little Britain."
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our extraordinary father.
More recently, Head appeared in the Apple TV+ series "Ted Lasso" as the former football club owner Rupert Mannion. His daughters, Emily and Daisy, released a statement expressing their grief, calling it an "honour and a privilege" to have been his daughters and to have witnessed his impact. They noted that he "loved his job very much" and considered himself fortunate.
Head's extensive filmography also includes roles in "The Iron Lady," "Doctor Who," "The Inbetweeners," "Persuasion," and "Manchild," cementing his legacy as a versatile and beloved performer in British and international television and film.
It has been, and forever will be, an honour and a privilege to be his daughters, and to have witnessed firsthand the impact both he and his work have had on so many.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.