Anthony Head, the British actor who played Coach Beard in Ted Lasso and Rupert Giles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, has died at 72. According to Deadline, he passed away peacefully from complications due to pneumonia, surrounded by family.
His daughters, fellow actors Emily and Daisy Head, shared the news with BBC News. The family released a statement saying he "passed away peacefully of complications due to pneumonia, surrounded by his family."
Head became known to mainstream audiences playing Coach Beard in Apple TV+'s Emmy-winning comedy Ted Lasso alongside Jason Sudeikis and Hannah Waddingham. His deadpan delivery defined the character, a man of few words who often dispensed wisdom amid the show's themes of second chances and redemption.
But his earlier role as Rupert Giles—Buffy's tweed-wearing, tea-sipping Watcher—cemented his place in pop culture. For seven seasons, he balanced comedy and drama, delivering moments that defined the series for its audience.
Head worked across British television and film throughout his career, moving between comedy, drama, and genre work. He was known for commanding the screen, sometimes doing so with minimal gesture.
The entertainment world is mourning his loss. Tributes from co-stars and fans are pouring in, celebrating his talent and the warmth he brought to his roles.
