Ted Lasso honours Anthony Head with fresh tribute

Anthony Head's lasting legacy continues to be honoured months after his death, with a major TV show issuing a fresh tribute to the acclaimed actor.

During an emotional penultimate episode of the current Ted Lasso's season, the show finished with a dedication to the Bath-based actor who formerly played wealthy businessman Rupert Mannion.

The tribute comes as the series' latest episode reintroduced Rupert's name in the storyline, despite him not appearing in the season.

Head died in June at the age of 72 after developing complications from pneumonia. His long-term partner, Sarah Fisher, died several months earlier, in December 2025, after she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

The ninth episode of the series concluded with a title card reading: 'In memory of Anthony Head', in recognition of world-renowned actor's contribution to the hit Apple+ show.

Head's career spanned more than four decades, with roles including Rupert Giles in Buffy theVampire Slayer, King Uther in Merlin and the Prime Minister in Little Britain.

Head and his long-term partner, animal welfare advocate Fisher, also had strong ties to the Bath area.

They lived near the city at Tilley Farm, Fisher's 90-acre sanctuary in Farmborough, where she cared for rescued horses, ponies and donkeys.

Fisher was a long-standing patron of Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary in North Somerset and also supported many animal charities, including Battersea Cats and Dogs Home.

A spokesperson for the London-based charity previously said: "Sarah, alongside her partner Anthony Head, gave so much to our charity, fostering dogs, using her canine behaviour expertise to train our staff and volunteers, and contributing in so many ways to make a real difference in animal welfare.

"She will be dearly missed by all of us at Battersea."

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