Renowned British actor Anthony Head, recognized for his roles in popular TV shows such as “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Ted Lasso,” has passed away at the age of 72, as confirmed by his family on Friday. The actor’s daughters, Emily and Daisy Head, revealed to the Press Association news agency that Head had complications arising from pneumonia.
Head initially gained fame in the 1980s as part of an iconic romantic duo in Nescafé instant coffee commercials, which were later adapted for the American audience as Taster’s Choice ads. However, he became widely known for his portrayal of Rupert Giles, the supportive mentor to the lead character in the beloved supernatural series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” which aired from 1997 to 2003.
In his most recent work, Head portrayed 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 contributed to and the fans who cherish them.
Born in London on February 20, 1954, to Seafield Head, a documentary filmmaker, and Helen Shingler, an actress, Head hailed from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. Notable among his various roles was his portrayal of Geoffrey Howe, the deputy to Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, in the award-winning film “The Iron Lady.”
Throughout his career, Head showcased his versatility by taking on diverse roles, including a prime minister in the comedy series “Little Britain” and King Uther Pendragon in the TV series “Merlin.” He also featured in shows like “Motherland,” “Manchild,” and “Silent Witness,” in addition to his involvement in stage productions and musicals. Tragically, in 2025, Head’s longtime partner, animal welfare activist Sarah Fisher, passed away at the age of 61.
