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The Express Gazette
Friday, October 2, 2026

Ted Lasso Pays Tribute to Actor Anthony Head

The Apple TV+ series honored the late actor, who played Rupert Mannion, in a recent episode.

Culture & Entertainment • 3 hours ago
Ted Lasso Pays Tribute to Actor Anthony Head

The Apple TV+ series "Ted Lasso" recently honored the late actor Anthony Head with a tribute during an emotional penultimate episode of its current season. The dedication appeared on screen as a title card reading, "In memory of Anthony Head," recognizing his contribution to the hit show where he portrayed the character Rupert Mannion.

Head, who died in June at the age of 72, had played the role of the wealthy businessman Rupert Mannion in the first three seasons of "Ted Lasso." Although the character did not appear in the most recent season, his name was reintroduced into the storyline, leading up to the on-screen dedication.

Head's career spanned over four decades, featuring notable roles such as Rupert Giles in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," King Uther in "Merlin," and the Prime Minister in "Little Britain." His partner, Sarah Fisher, an animal welfare advocate, passed away in December 2025 after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The couple resided near Bath, England, at Tilley Farm, Fisher's sanctuary for rescued animals. Fisher was also a patron of several animal charities, including Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary and Battersea Cats and Dogs Home. A spokesperson for Battersea noted Head and Fisher's significant contributions to the charity, including fostering dogs and utilizing Fisher's expertise in canine behavior to train staff and volunteers.


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