The news broke late this afternoon. Anthony Head, the actor who defined the roles of Giles in *Buffy the Vampire Slayer* and Rupert in *Ted Lasso*, has died at 72. The cause is not yet confirmed, but sources say it was sudden. Tributes are already flooding in from across the industry.
This is a man who straddled two worlds. The quiet, tweed-wearing librarian who was also a badass Watcher. The warm, eccentric boss who hid a heart of gold behind a comedic exterior. Head made it look easy. That is the mark of a true pro.
Westminster, for once, is united in grief. Politicians, many of whom grew up watching him, have taken to social media. The Prime Minister called him 'a national treasure.' A backbench MP told me, 'He was the best of Britain. Understated, talented, and utterly charming.' Inside the Lobby, the mood is subdued. A reminder that even the toughest political operators have their childhood heroes.
Let's remember the career. From the early days in *Doctor Who* to the iconic role of the Prime Minister in *Little Britain*. But it was *Buffy* that made him immortal. Joss Whedon's creation was a phenomenon, and Head's Giles was the anchor. The stoic, witty father figure who could also deliver a devastating left hook. Then came *Ted Lasso*. A late-career triumph that introduced him to a new generation. As Rupert Mannion, he was the villain you loved to hate. A performance of pure, unadulterated charisma.
Friends speak of a man who was fiercely private, generous, and deeply committed to his craft. One co-star recalled, 'He never phoned it in. Every line, every gesture, was considered. He made everyone around him better.'
The family has asked for privacy. No details on funeral arrangements yet. A statement is expected later tonight. For now, the industry mourns. The lights of a thousand screens go a little dimmer.
This is a developing story. We will bring you more as we have it. But for now, take a moment. Pour a drink. Remember the magic. Anthony Head, 1954-2026. Rest in peace.
