Buffy the Vampire Slayer actress Alyson Hannigan has shared a devastating tribute to Anthony Head following his death at the age of 72. The actor, known for playing librarian Rupert Giles in the popular supernatural series, died from complications due to pneumonia, as announced by his daughters on Friday.
A Heartbreaking Tribute
Hannigan, who portrayed Willow Rosenberg, took to Instagram with a poignant post featuring an old photo with Head. She wrote: 'This cut is so deep I fear it can never heal. Oh Tonal... I am so grateful to have had you in my life! I want to say a million wonderful things about you and yet I can't seem to find the words that would do you justice. I love you so much and will miss you forever. RIP.'
Fans quickly offered condolences, with Sarah Michelle Gellar, who played Buffy Summers, commenting sweetly: 'He loved you so dearly Aly.'
Fans Mourn a Beloved Character
Many fans expressed their grief, with one writing: 'This one hurts a lot. Giles was our favorite father figure we wished we had.' Another added: 'Forever our favorite librarian. Sending my condolences to everyone who is close to him.'
The Buffy community has faced multiple losses in recent years, including Michelle Trachtenberg (Dawn Summers) in February 2025 and Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris) in March 2026. Gellar previously honored both co-stars, reflecting on Trachtenberg's smile and Brendon's peace.
Gellar's Emotional Response
After Head's death, Gellar quoted her character, writing: 'Tell Giles I figured it out and I'm ok. Well I don't have it figured out and I'm not ok. But I know I'm the lucky one because I knew you.' She thanked his daughters for sharing him with the world.
Head's Daughters Announce His Passing
Emily and Daisy Head, both actresses, confirmed their father's death in a statement, noting he 'passed away peacefully' just six months after their mother, Sarah Fisher, died at 61. They expressed gratitude for being his daughters and witnessing his impact on others.
'Our grief is far greater than the hole he has left behind, but we know his legacy will live on in the shows he was a part of,' they said.
A Storied Career
Beyond Buffy, Head was famous for roles in Ted Lasso as Rupert Mannion, the Nescafé Gold Blend ads in the 1980s, and appearances in Little Britain, The Inbetweeners, Merlin, Motherland, and Doctor Who. His career spanned decades, earning him a devoted fan base.
