Sarah Michelle Gellar & David Boreanaz Honor Buffy Co‑Stars at Emmys

**Gellar and Boreanaz Pay Tribute to Late Buffy Co‑Stars at 2026 Emmys**

The 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards saw a heartfelt moment as Sarah Michelle Gellar and David Boreanaz stepped onto the stage to present the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie award.

Their appearance was notable not only for the recognition of the winner but also for a gentle reminder of the series’ enduring legacy. Amid applause, the pair turned to honor several beloved cast members who had passed away in recent years.

During the ceremony, Gellar and Boreanaz first exchanged playful remarks about their characters’ age gap. “I mean, when you think about it, it is kind of crazy, right?

A teenage girl chosen by fate to fight vampires, demons, forces of darkness and she falls in love with a vampire with a soul, carrying around a couple 100 years of regret,” Boreanaz mused. Gellar added, “A much, much older vampire with a soul and agonizing remorse about his past.

For those of you who don’t know, his character was 241 years old.” They laughed, then shifted to a more solemn tone.

## Background & Context

The tribute came after a difficult two‑year period for the Buffy franchise. Michelle Trachtenberg died in February 2025 at 39, followed by Nicholas Brendon’s passing in March 2026 at 54. Anthony Head’s death in June 2026 at 72 also left a deep void among fans and colleagues.

These losses highlighted the show's long‑standing impact and the close bonds formed among its cast and crew. Gellar and Boreanaz emphasized that they feel very lucky to have known and worked with such amazing people, acknowledging the collective grief while celebrating their shared history.

## Tribute Highlights

Following their banter, Gellar turned serious. “David and I would like to acknowledge that it has been a tough two years for our beloved cast and crew, and we feel very lucky to have known and worked with such amazing people,” she said.

David quipped, “So, a May‑December romance?” and Gellar replied, “More like a May‑December 1787 romance.” Boreanaz added, “I always thought that Buffy and Angel would end up together,” to which Sarah answered, “Well, I guess we won’t find out,” nodding to her canceled Buffy reboot.

Their light‑hearted exchange served as a reminder of the series’ enduring magic even amid loss.

The ceremony closed on a note of remembrance and resilience, underscoring the lasting connection between the show’s creators, its dedicated audience, and the talent that made Buffy a cultural touchstone.