Ted Lasso Pays On-Screen Tribute to Anthony Head, Who Played Rupert Mannion
In the recent ninth episode of Ted Lasso, a heartfelt tribute appeared, reading "In memory of Anthony Head," honoring the actor famed for his portrayal of Rupert Mannion, a wealthy entrepreneur. Head, who joined the show in 2020, sadly passed away at 72 in June due to complications from pneumonia. Even though Rupert wasn't part of this season's storyline, his character's name was still included. With a career spanning over four decades, Head was also well-known for roles like Rupert Giles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and King Uther in Merlin. His partner, Sarah Fisher, who dedicated her life to animal welfare, passed away from thyroid cancer in December 2025. Together, they lived at her 90-acre sanctuary, Tilley Farm, where they hosted charity events and fostered dogs.
Key facts
- The ninth episode of the current Ted Lasso season ended with a title card: 'In memory of Anthony Head'.
- Anthony Head played Rupert Mannion on Ted Lasso, joining the cast in 2020.
- Head died in June at age 72 after developing complications from pneumonia.
- His long-term partner, Sarah Fisher, died in December 2025 after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
- Head's career spanned more than four decades, including roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Merlin, and Little Britain.
- The couple lived near Bath at Tilley Farm, Fisher's 90-acre sanctuary in Farmborough.
- Fisher was a patron of Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary and supported Battersea Cats and Dogs Home.
- A Battersea spokesperson praised Fisher and Head for fostering dogs and training staff and volunteers.
Entities
Artists
- Anthony Head
- Sarah Fisher
Institutions
- Ted Lasso
- Apple+
- Buffy the Vampire Slayer
- Merlin
- Little Britain
- Forever Hounds Trust
- Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary
- Battersea Cats and Dogs Home
- BBC Bristol
Locations
- Bath
- United Kingdom
- Tilley Farm
- Farmborough
- North Somerset
- London