OBITUARIES
Camden Toy dies at 68: tributes for ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ actor
The popular vampire series featuring Sarah Michelle Gellar in the lead role was where he made his name for many.
The world of film and series mourns today the death of Camden Toy, famous for his role as a vampire in the TV series ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer.’ The acclaimed actor passed away at the age of 68 after a two-year-long battle with pancreatic cancer.
“We are saddened to announce the passing of our friend and client, Camden Toy, after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer,” read the statement from his agency advising that he had finally succumbed to the illness on December 11.
Camden Toy deterioration shared by wife
His wife, Bea Henderson, had already shared a photo on December 8 on Facebook, where she informed that the actor’s health had deteriorated in recent days.
“My heart is breaking as I watch my Love vanish before me!” she wrote. “Many of our circle know that Camden has been battling with pancreatic cancer for 2 years. He was diagnosed in February last year after months of mysterious pain. For many reasons we were very hopeful for, at least, a longer and more fruitful time on planet Earth. Even the more recent challenges felt more like a hiccup in progress.
“Unfortunately, it looks like we’ve reached the end of the road with the doctor’s treatments. His condition has declined a lot in the last 2 months and tremendously in the last several days. He chose, for many reasons, not to announce his illness publicly, and so, unfortunately, this may be new and shocking news to many of his fans. We both apologize for this and please know that he has appreciated you all so much, as have I! Unfortunately, he can’t communicate at this time, so I will be answering any calls or texts as I’m able. thanks to all of our family and friends who have been supportive along the way! Thank you!
His passing has left a significant impact on the industry, prompting his best friend, fellow actor Doug Jones, to speak out on social media.
“This is hard. 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.”
Camden Toy role in Buffy pivotal in career
Toy’s acting career primarily featured roles as demons, such as the one he portrayed in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer,’ one of the most memorable. He also played Gnarl in another iconic episode of the series, ‘Same Time, Same Place,’ from the seventh season, and the vampire Turok-Han towards the end of the storyline.
On the big screen, he appeared in other productions like ‘Average Joe’ or ‘The Bay,’ a series where he left a lasting impression, according to producer Gregori Martin: “No wonder he was one of the fan favorites.”