Buffy actor James Marsters breaks silence on ‘heartbreaking’ Joss Whedon allegations

Actor spoke of ‘challenges’ on the set of the revered series

Buffy the Vampire Slayer actor James Marsters has broken his silence on allegations against the show’s creator Joss Whedon.

On Wednesday (10 February), Buffy actor Charisma Carpenter accused Whedon of “abusing his power” on the set and firing her from spin-off series Angel after she had given birth.

A number of other Buffy stars also made allegations in the wake of Carpenter’s claims, including actor Amber Benson, who alleged that the show was filmed amid “a toxic environment” that “started at the top”.

According to Variety, Whedon has so far declined to comment on the allegations. The Independent has contacted his representative.

On Friday (12 February), Marsters, who portrayed vampire Spike on both Buffy and Angel, wrote on Twitter that he was “heartbroken” by the claims.

Read more: Buffy fans had heard the Joss Whedon allegations – we chose not to listen

“While I will always be honoured to have played the character of Spike, the Buffy set was not without challenges,” the actor wrote.

“I do not support abuse of any kind, and am heartbroken to learn of the experiences of some of the cast. I send my love and support to all involved.”

Marsters joins a number of Buffy and Angel actors who have expressed empathy to Carpenter. Anthony Head, who portrayed Rupert Giles on the series, told ITV’s This Morning that he was “gutted” by the claims.

“I have been up most of the night just running through my memories thinking, ‘What did I miss?’” he said. “This is not a man saying, ‘I didn’t see it so it didn’t happen.’ I am gutted, I’m seriously gutted.”

Buffy actor Sarah Michelle Gellar also distanced herself from Whedon in a statement, adding: “I stand with all survivors of abuse and am proud of them for speaking out.”