Sarah Michelle Gellar has paid tribute to Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Camden Toy, who has died aged 68.
The actor played several iconic villains in the hit US horror series, including one of The Gentlemen and Gnarl.
Toy died on December 11, his representatives confirmed in a statement. He had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer two years ago.
Gellar, who starred as the series' titular hero, took to Instagram to share a picture of Toy as one of the eerie Gentlemen, writing that it was an "honour" to work with him.
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Fellow Gentlemen actor Doug Jones also shared a touching post about Toy, writing on X (formerly Twitter) that he was "blessed" to call him a friend.
"This is hard," Jones wrote. "So many memories including working together, decades of laughing, sharing mutual friends, get-togethers, travel, conventions, and huggles with each other and our fans.
"From Buffy on, 24 years blessed to have this friend. May he rest in God's peace."
Juliet Landau, who starred in the show as Spike's love interest Drusilla, described the actor as "a beautiful soul, a beautiful friend, and a beautiful talent."
She continued: "From the first moment we met, I knew he was special. Under the visage of the monster he was made-up to be, shined the kindest of spirits. He's been a gift in our lives. We will miss him greatly."
Toy also appeared in Buffy spin-off Angel as the Prince of Lies, and had roles in shows including The Bay, The Mentalist, Zen Noir, and Lightning Bug.
The Bay producer Gregori Martin said Toy was a "joy to work with" and celebrated his popularity on the drama series.
"Camden was always always such a talent and joy to work with. It's no wonder he was a fan favorite on The Bay," he said. "I am so grateful for the times I got to work with him and will certainly cherish those memories."
Announcing the actors's death, a representative said: "We are saddened to report the death of our friend and client Camden Toy. After a 2 year battle with pancreatic cancer, the beloved star, finally succumbed to the disease on December 11. Camden Toy was 68 years old.
"He leaves behind his mother, sister and longtime partner, Bethany Henderson. Camden Toy is best known for his roles on the television shows Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Good Nite Burbank, and The Bay.
"Those who knew him, remember the kindness, the sweetness and his infectious smile, and great sense of humor. He relished in making people laugh."
Freelance Reporter, Digital Spy
Rebecca is a freelance journalist who specialises in TV and film. After beginning her career as a digital entertainment journalist for the Express & Star and Shropshire Star, she embarked on a freelance career in 2021 contributing to the likes of Metro UK, The Sun, WhatCulture, Screen Rant, FilmHounds Magazine and more.
Her particular field of interest is horror cinema and she has written for genre publications such as Ghouls Magazine and Moving Pictures Film Club.
