Marcus Gilbert, the British actor who brought Jilly Cooper’s rakish character Rupert Campbell-Black to life in the 1993 television adaptation of “Riders,” died January 11, 2026, at the age of 67. Gilbert passed away after battling throat cancer for three years.
The Bristol-born actor achieved fame through his portrayal of Rupert Campbell-Black, the charming yet ruthless showjumper in Cooper’s beloved novel adaptation. His career spanned decades and included notable roles in major film franchises and British television series.
Gilbert is survived by his son Maxi and daughter Aaliya, who is 29 years old. His wife, Homaa Khan-Gilbert, whom he married in 1992, died in 2020 from pancreatic cancer. At the time of his death, Gilbert was in a relationship with actress Lysette Anthony.
Gilbert’s connection with Anthony stretched back more than three decades. The pair starred together in “A Ghost In Monte Carlo” in 1990, adapting a Barbara Cartland novel for television. Their romantic relationship began in 2023, 33 years after their first on-screen kiss, following Gilbert’s diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease in 2020.
The actor’s film career included memorable roles in major Hollywood productions. He appeared in Rambo III in 1988, working alongside Sylvester Stallone in the action franchise. He also featured in “Army of Darkness,” the third installment of the “Evil Dead” series, in 1992.
British television audiences knew Gilbert from his appearance in “Doctor Who,” where he played Ancelyn in 1989. His work in the long-running science fiction series left an impression on fans and colleagues alike. Russell T Davies, the showrunner of “Doctor Who,” commented on social media following news of Gilbert’s death: “Oh that’s sad news.”
Actor and comedian Toby Hadoke paid tribute to Gilbert on social media.
Gilbert’s American television credits included an appearance on “Murder, She Wrote” in 1994. The actor also worked extensively in commercials throughout his career, appearing in more than 50 advertisements. He secured a lucrative four-year contract in 1993 to appear in Nescafé Gold Blend commercials, a testament to his marketability and screen presence.
In addition to his work in “A Ghost In Monte Carlo,” Gilbert starred in another Barbara Cartland adaptation titled “A Hazard of Hearts.” These romantic period pieces showcased his versatility as a leading man in British television productions.
Gilbert’s brush with potential superstardom came in the late 1980s when he was considered for the role of James Bond. However, he lost the coveted part to Timothy Dalton, who took on the role of 007 in 1986. Despite missing out on the iconic franchise, Gilbert continued to build a respected career across multiple entertainment mediums.
Beyond acting, Gilbert demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit by forming Touch the Sky Productions, a company focused on creating corporate and travel documentaries. This venture allowed him to explore different aspects of the entertainment industry and showcase his interests beyond traditional acting roles.
Gilbert’s personal life was marked by tragedy from an early age. When he was 12 years old, his father and grandparents died in a car crash. Gilbert survived the devastating accident, which shaped his life and perspective from childhood onward.
The actor’s 1993 television role in “Riders” brought him widespread recognition in Britain. The mini-series, based on Cooper’s novel set in the competitive world of showjumping, featured Gilbert in the role that would define much of his career. His portrayal of the charismatic yet morally complex Rupert Campbell-Black resonated with audiences and established him as a leading man in British television.
The renewal of Gilbert’s relationship with Anthony in 2023 provided companionship during his final years. Their decades-spanning connection, which began with their professional collaboration in 1990, evolved into a romantic partnership that supported him through his cancer battle.
Throughout his career spanning from the 1980s through the 2020s, Gilbert maintained a presence in entertainment despite the industry’s competitive nature. His work ranged from prestigious film franchises to beloved television series, from theatrical performances to commercial advertising. The diversity of his portfolio demonstrated his adaptability as a performer and his commitment to his craft across various formats and genres.
The actor’s legacy includes his contributions to British television drama and his memorable performances in international film productions. His portrayal of Rupert Campbell-Black remains a significant interpretation of one of Jilly Cooper’s most famous literary characters, introducing the character to television audiences and helping cement the popularity of the “Rutshire Chronicles” series in visual media.