A Heartfelt Farewell
Alyson Hannigan has publicly expressed her grief following the passing of her Buffy the Vampire Slayer co-star, Anthony Stewart Head. The 52-year-old actress shared a moving tribute on Instagram, reflecting on the profound impact the actor had on her life.
«This cut is so deep I fear it can never heal,» Hannigan wrote in her Saturday post. The two actors shared the screen for seven seasons of the supernatural series, with Hannigan portraying the powerful witch Willow Rosenberg, while Head famously played Buffy's mentor, Rupert Giles.
In her touching message, Hannigan added, «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.»
The Family’s Announcement
The news of Anthony Head’s passing was shared by his daughters, Emily and Daisy Head, on Friday, June 5. They confirmed that their father died peacefully while surrounded by family, following a struggle with complications from pneumonia.
In a joint statement, his daughters honored his legacy:
«It has been, and forever will be, an honor and a privilege to be his daughters, and to have witnessed firsthand the impact both he and his work have had on so many. We know how dearly he will be missed by friends, colleagues, and fans of the shows he was in.»
Cast Members Pay Tribute
The loss has been felt deeply throughout the Buffy community. Sarah Michelle Gellar, who played the titular character, reached out to Hannigan in the comments section, noting, «He loved you so dearly Aly.»
Gellar also penned her own tribute, referencing a classic moment from the show: «‘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. Thank you to Daisy and Emily who not only shared their dad with me, but with the world.»
Other cast members also expressed their condolences. Eliza Dushku shared her memories on her Instagram Story, writing, «Tony H ~ For every scene & time shared, I give thanks. Rest in love and peace, kind sir. A dear one.»
A Difficult Time for the Buffy Community
The Buffy the Vampire Slayer family has faced several tragic losses recently. In February 2025, Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her role as Dawn Summers, passed away at age 39 due to complications from diabetes. Furthermore, actor Nicholas Brendon, who portrayed Xander Harris, died in March at the age of 54 following various health challenges.