Anthony Head, 55, is a fixture of British and American stage and television, starring in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Little Britain and Dr Who. He lives in Bath with his partner Sarah and two daughters.

My best friend’s mum

When I was 6, my best friend was Tom Underhill. Every year his mother, Rosalie, would put on a play with her kids and their friends. The first time I did it, I played a herald, but the next year, I was an emperor. That moment, when I walked through the audience and everyone turned to look at me… I remember thinking very clearly, this is what I want to do for ever.

My partner

I was very, very fortunate to find my partner, Sarah Fisher, the most influential person in my life. When we met at the National Theatre, I was gobsmacked. I can’t remember what I said… it was the worst pick-up line ever. When securing work was hard after a [famous Nescafé] coffee ad, it was Sarah who said I should test the water in America and change people’s perceptions of me, and that she would stay with the girls. An extraordinary sacrifice.

My acting coach

Milton Katselas ran the Beverly Hills Playhouse. He had this amazing ability to touch on whatever it was that was holding you back from your full potential. His whole ethos was that life is filled with choices, and it led to a change of direction for me as an actor. It paid off, and has meant all the choices I’ve made since have been more, shall we say, lively.

My daughters

I have a lovely relationship with Emily and Daisy, amazingly, given that for eight years I was away from them for months on end. We took every opportunity to be together… they would come to LA, the crew and cast of Buffy were their friends and Sarah Michelle [Gellar] and Alyson [Hannigan] were like sisters to them. I’d always say, “I can leave Buffy if you want me to, if this is too difficult,” but they both said no, it’s too cool a show. They both act, and the fact they’ve seen it first-hand early on was beneficial.

My mum and dad

When at first I didn’t get into drama school, Dad took me into his company making documentary films, working in the cutting room. Instead of saying, “Right, you’re obviously not going to be an actor,” he allowed me to do something constructive. I’ve remained good friends with my parents, though my dad just passed away. It’s hard – you think, did I say everything that needed to be said? I’m glad to say I did. I miss him, but there was nothing owing on either side.

Free Agents, starring Anthony Head, is available on DVD now