Anthony Stewart Head, the celebrated British actor recognized for his roles as Rupert Giles in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and Rupert Mannion in "Ted Lasso," has died at the age of 72. His daughters, Daisy and Emily Head, confirmed his passing due to complications from pneumonia.
Head's portrayal of the Watcher Giles across seven seasons of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" cemented his status as a beloved television father figure. Beyond his acting, Head was also an accomplished singer and theater performer, with early career credits including a role in the musical "Godspell" and multiple turns as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in stage productions of "The Rocky Horror Show."
His career extended into film and music, with appearances in "Repo! The Genetic Opera" and the release of albums and singles, including his rendition of "Sweet Transvestite." More recently, he took on the role of AFC Richmond's villainous former owner, Rupert Mannion, in Apple TV's "Ted Lasso."
While not a prolific figure in gaming, Head reprised his role as Rupert Giles in the 2002 "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" video game for the Xbox, providing the game's initial narration. He returned to the character for the 2003 sequel, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Chaos Bleeds." Head also lent his talents to the game "Destroy All Humans! 2," playing the villainous Reginald Ponsonby-Smythe. Head is survived by his two daughters, both of whom have followed him into acting careers.