Anthony Head, star of Buffy and Ted Lasso, dies aged 72

British actor Anthony Head, celebrated for his diverse roles on television and stage, has passed away at the age of 72. Head first captured the attention of UK audiences through his memorable appearances in Nescafe's Gold Blend coffee advertisements during the late 1980s and early 1990s. This unlikely start paved the way for a prolific acting career.

He achieved significant international fame for his portrayal of Rupert Giles in the beloved supernatural teen drama "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," a role he played from 1997 to 2003. Following this success, Head took on a recurring part as the prime minister in the popular sketch comedy series "Little Britain" in the mid-2000s. His talent also extended to fantasy dramas, including his role as Uther Pendragon in the BBC's "Merlin" from 2008 to 2012.

Head's career continued with notable performances in shows like "Still Star-Crossed," an adaptation exploring the aftermath of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," and more recently, he appeared as Rupert Mannion in the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series "Ted Lasso." His extensive body of work also included stage performances, such as his role in "Otherwise Engaged" on the West End in 2005, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and enduring performer.