Buffy the Vampire Slayer captured hearts in the late ’90s and early 2000s, with its unforgettable mix of supernatural battles, coming-of-age themes, and strong character arcs. Even decades later, the show remains a cult favorite, and fans continue to follow the lives and careers of its iconic cast. The series launched or solidified the careers of several stars, from Sarah Michelle Gellar’s fierce portrayal of Buffy to James Marsters’ unforgettable role as Spike. Since leaving Sunnydale, the cast members have taken diverse paths—some have stayed in the spotlight, while others have explored new ventures in television, film, music, and advocacy. Here’s a look at what the cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer is up to now, and how they’ve each kept the show’s legacy alive in unique ways.
1. David Boreanaz (Angel)
Since his role as Angel, David Boreanaz has continued his success on television. He starred as Seeley Booth in Bones, a long-running forensic crime drama. Currently, he plays Jason Hayes in SEAL Team, a military action series, where he also serves as a producer and director. Boreanaz’s career has thrived with these iconic roles, keeping him a consistent presence on TV.
2. Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris)
Nicholas Brendon has faced personal challenges over the years, including legal and health issues. He continued acting after Buffy, with appearances on Criminal Minds and indie projects, though his struggles have sometimes impacted his work. Fans still remember him fondly as Xander, and he occasionally appears at conventions to connect with the Buffy fanbase.
3. Kristine Sutherland (Joyce Summers)
Kristine Sutherland took a step back from acting after Buffy, focusing more on family life. She has appeared in a few smaller projects, including a guest role on New Amsterdam. Fans continue to remember her warmly as Buffy’s supportive mother, Joyce Summers.
4. D.B. Woodside (Principal Robin Wood)
After his role as the vampire-slaying Principal Wood, D.B. Woodside appeared on 24 and later played the angel Amenadiel in Lucifer, a role that gained him a new fanbase. He has continued to act in other series and movies, becoming a regular presence on TV.
5. Seth Green (Oz)
Seth Green is as multifaceted as ever. Since Buffy, he’s been involved in several projects, including creating and voicing characters on Robot Chicken. He’s also voiced Chris Griffin on Family Guy and has appeared in both TV and film. Known for his quirky humor, Green has been successful both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
6. James Marsters (Spike)
James Marsters has embraced his Buffy roots, reprising Spike’s character in audio dramas and appearing at conventions. After Buffy, he took on various roles in shows like Smallville, Torchwood, and Hawaii Five-0. Marsters also has a music career, frequently performing with his band Ghost of the Robot.
7. Charisma Carpenter (Cordelia Chase)
Charisma Carpenter went on to star in Angel, then had roles in shows like Charmed and Veronica Mars. Recently, she has been vocal about her experiences on Buffy, bringing light to some of the challenges she faced on set. Carpenter continues acting, guest-starring on various series, and remains active in the entertainment industry.
8. Eliza Dushku (Faith)
Eliza Dushku continued her career in roles like Tru Calling and Dollhouse. She later transitioned into film production and advocacy work, focusing on her family and raising awareness on social issues. Dushku has taken a step back from acting in recent years but remains connected to her fanbase.
9. Anthony Head (Rupert Giles)
Anthony Head has enjoyed a steady career post-Buffy, appearing in British TV series like Merlin and The Split. He has also continued his work in theater and music, staying active across different mediums. Head’s role as Giles remains one of his most beloved, and he is well-regarded in both the UK and the US.
10. Michelle Trachtenberg (Dawn Summers)
Michelle Trachtenberg continued acting after Buffy, with memorable roles in Gossip Girl and the film 17 Again. Though she hasn’t been as active in recent years, she occasionally takes on new roles and has hinted at upcoming projects. Trachtenberg stays connected with fans on social media and remains fondly remembered as Dawn.
11. Alyson Hannigan (Willow Rosenberg)
Alyson Hannigan had a successful post-Buffy career, starring as Lily Aldrin on How I Met Your Mother and hosting Penn & Teller: Fool Us. She remains a fan favorite and has been involved in various projects, including family movies and voice acting. Hannigan’s humor and versatility continue to win her roles and keep her in the public eye.
12. Sarah Michelle Gellar (Buffy Summers)
Sarah Michelle Gellar remains a beloved icon. Since Buffy, she starred in The Grudge and Ringer and has recently focused on voice work, appearing in Masters of the Universe: Revelation. She’s also involved in business ventures and charity work and returned to acting in the supernatural series Wolf Pack. Gellar’s impact as Buffy still resonates, and she remains a cherished figure in pop culture.
The cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer continues to evolve, each member leaving a lasting legacy. From acting and producing to activism and family life, they each carry their own story forward, while the Buffy fandom keeps their roles alive.