The popular Apple TV series *Ted Lasso* commemorated the late Anthony Head in its latest episode, which marked the end of the penultimate chapter of its fourth season. The episode, titled “Mae Rides the Bus,” aired on Wednesday, 30 September, and concluded with a poignant title card dedicated to Head, who portrayed Rupert Mannion, the former owner of AFC Richmond, during the first three seasons.
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Anthony Head, who passed away from pneumonia-related complications on 5 June at the age of 72, was fondly remembered by his daughters, who shared the news with various media outlets. In honour of his contributions, the episode acknowledged his legacy with a simple yet impactful message: “In Memory of Anthony Head.”
The timing of the tribute was significant, coinciding with a dramatic storyline in which Mae Green, the owner of the iconic Crown & Anchor pub, suffered a fatal collapse during an away match for the ladies’ team, the Lady Greyhounds. This narrative development added an emotional layer to the episode, reinforcing the themes of loss and remembrance prevalent in the series.
In comments to *Deadline*, Annette Badland, who played Mae Green, spoke fondly of her time working with Head. She described him as a “beautiful man” whose charm, humour, and generous spirit made a lasting impact. Badland expressed her surprise that Head would not be part of the final season, noting that very few people were aware of his health struggles. “I had assumed he would be in this last season,” she reflected, acknowledging the sorrow felt by those who admired him.
Head’s tenure on *Ted Lasso* encompassed 18 episodes, with his last appearance recorded in the third season’s episode “So Long, Farewell,” which premiered in May 2023. His presence was missed not only by his co-stars but also by the show’s dedicated fanbase, who fondly remembered his charismatic portrayal of Rupert.
The outpouring of grief following Head’s passing extended beyond *Ted Lasso*, with tributes flooding in from numerous colleagues and friends. Sarah Michelle Gellar, a former co-star from *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, shared her heartfelt sentiments on social media, expressing that she felt fortunate to have known him.
Following Head’s death, his daughters, Emily and Daisy, released a touching statement reflecting on his legacy and the admiration felt by those who knew him. “We know how dearly he will be missed by friends, colleagues, and fans of the shows he was in,” they said, highlighting their father’s deep passion for his work and his respect for the talented people he collaborated with throughout his career.
The family also acknowledged the profound sense of loss while affirming that Head’s legacy would remain alive through the many productions he was part of and the audiences that cherished them. They concluded their message by requesting privacy during this challenging time, illustrating the personal grief felt following the death of a beloved father and actor.
As *Ted Lasso* continues to captivate viewers with its blend of comedy and heartfelt storytelling, episodes like “Mae Rides the Bus” serve as a reminder of the relationships and memories that endure, both on-screen and off. The tribute to Anthony Head not only reflects the strong bonds formed amongst the cast but also highlights the lasting impact he has had on the series and its fans. His memorable performances and the affection held for him by his colleagues ensure that his spirit will continue to resonate within the series, even as the storyline evolves.