Sarah Michelle Gellar and fellow Buffy stars pay tribute following Anthony Head’s death

The cast of the cult television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer has paid heartfelt tribute to Anthony Head following news of his death at the age of 72.

Head, who became a fan favourite through his role as Rupert Giles, was remembered by former co-stars as a talented performer, trusted friend and guiding presence both on and off screen.

The actor first appeared in the pilot episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer as Giles, the Watcher and mentor to Buffy Summers. Alongside his role as Sunnydale High School’s librarian, Giles became one of the show’s central characters and remained a key part of the series throughout its seven-season run.

Following confirmation of his death on 5 June, tributes quickly emerged from actors who worked alongside him during one of television’s most successful fantasy dramas.

Sarah Michelle Gellar, who played Buffy Summers, shared an emotional message on social media reflecting on her long friendship with Head.

Referencing a memorable line from the series, Gellar wrote that she had not figured things out and was not okay following the news. She said she considered herself fortunate to have known him and thanked his daughters for sharing their father with both her and the wider world.

The tribute resonated strongly with fans who remembered the close relationship between Buffy and Giles throughout the series.

Emma Caulfield, who portrayed Anya Jenkins, also reflected on decades of friendship with Head.

Sharing a photograph taken during a visit to London in 2011, Caulfield recalled spending a day with Head while he was working on the film The Iron Lady. She described a perfect day filled with conversation, music, food and laughter.

According to Caulfield, moments like that were common during their 27-year friendship. She remembered him as kind, wise and someone who guided her during difficult times.

She added that he was deeply loved by those who knew him.

David Boreanaz, who played Angel in the series, also paid tribute.

In a brief but heartfelt message, Boreanaz described Head as a kind and generous soul.

Meanwhile, James Marsters shared one of the most emotional tributes.

Marsters, who portrayed Spike, wrote that there was now a hole in the world following Head’s passing. He described the actor as a consistently kind and dependable presence on the set of Buffy and praised his talent as a performer.

Marsters called Head the best actor in the cast and said he had learned a great deal from working alongside him. He also described him as “the best of us,” a phrase that quickly spread among fans mourning the loss.

Throughout his time on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Head worked alongside a cast that included Alyson Hannigan, Charisma Carpenter, Seth Green, Marc Blucas and Michelle Trachtenberg.

For many viewers, Rupert Giles was one of the defining characters of the series. His wisdom, humour and fatherly guidance made him a central figure in Buffy’s journey and helped shape some of the show’s most memorable moments.

As tributes continue to arrive from across the entertainment industry, Head’s impact on television and the people who worked with him remains clear.

For his co-stars, he was more than a respected actor. He was a mentor, a friend and a cherished part of a television family that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.