Actor Anthony Head, 72, dies from pneumonia complications

Anthony Head, the British actor best known for his role as the librarian and Watcher Rupert Giles on the television series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," has died. He was 72. His death was confirmed by his daughters, actresses Emily and Daisy Head, who said he passed away peacefully from complications due to pneumonia, surrounded by his family.

In a statement, his daughters described him as an extraordinary father and said it was an honour and a privilege to be his daughters. They noted the impact both he and his work had on many people. He loved his job very much, and he always considered himself incredibly lucky to have worked alongside such exceptionally talented people across a career spanning several decades, they said. The family has asked for privacy.

Head’s portrayal of the dignified, paternal Giles on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," which aired from 1997 to 2003, served as his breakthrough role and cemented his place in popular culture. He was a series regular for the show's first five seasons before moving to a recurring role. The character became a father figure to Sarah Michelle Gellar’s Buffy Summers and remained central to the series throughout its run.