Riders actor Marcus Gilbert, who played the original Rupert Campbell-Black, dies aged 67
His passing comes months after the death of the book's author Dame Jilly Cooper
Marcus Gilbert, the actor who played Rupert Campbell-Black in the 1993 TV film Riders, has died at the age of 67, it’s been revealed.
The actor, most famous for playing the swoonsome cad in the TV adaptation of the Jilly Cooper novel, died on Sunday (January 11) after a battle with cancer.
A post on a Facebook fan site shared the sad news. His death comes just three months after the death of author Dame Jilly Cooper.
Statement shared following death of Rupert Campbell-Black actor Marcus Gilbert
The post said: “Today we have heard the very sad news that Marcus lost his battle against cancer on Sunday 11th January 2026. We, along with his many fans worldwide, will mourn his loss, and remember the joy he gave us on screen, and in person. RIP Marcus.”
Marcus lost wife Homaa back in 2020 after she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He recently found love with actress Lysette Anthony and is survived by son Maxi and daughter Aaliya.
One of his last posts was with Lysette. He called her a “beautiful lady” and shared a picture of the couple sitting inside a church with his dog.
View this post on Instagram
‘A wonderful actor who will be greatly missed’
Tributes poured in for the actor, who also appeared in Doctor Who’s Battlefield. Doctor Who creator Russell T Davies said: “Oh that’s sad news.” “So sad to hear that Marcus Gilbert has passed away. Marcus was a delight and great fun to meet at Pandorica with a Battlefield cast Reunion a few years ago,” said another friend.
Meanwhile, fans also showed their support. One posted: “Very sorry to learn of the death, too young.” Another commented: “Rest in peace, Marcus Gilbert. A wonderful actor who will be greatly missed.” “Such said news,” said another. “Rest in peace, Marcus,” another added. “So so sad,” said another.
Marcus’ career
As well as Riders, Marcus also appeared in Doctor Who, A Ghost in Monte Carlo, Rambo III and Murder, She Wrote.
He also ran his own production company, Touch the Sky Productions, and famously appeared as the rich and handsome boyfriend in the Nescafe Gold Blend adverts.
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