Merlin Star, Anthony Head Dies at 72

British actor Anthony Head, known for his roles in popular television shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Merlin, and Ted Lasso, has died at the age of 72.

His family confirmed that the actor passed away peacefully following complications from pneumonia, surrounded by his loved ones.

In a joint statement, his daughters, Emily and Daisy Head, expressed their deep grief and paid tribute to their father’s extensive career and impact on the global entertainment industry.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our extraordinary father. 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.”

Head gained international recognition in the late 1990s for his role as Rupert Giles in the American supernatural teen drama Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He later starred as King Uther Pendragon in the BBC series Merlin and as Rupert Mannion in the comedy drama Ted Lasso.

Born in London in 1954 to parents in the film and documentary industry, Head trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). He began his career in the 1980s, initially gaining fame in the United Kingdom as the face of a popular Nescafé television commercial series.

Throughout his decades-long career, Head appeared in numerous stage musicals, radio dramas, and television series, including Doctor Who, Little Britain, and Bridgerton.

He is survived by his two daughters, who are also professional actresses.