Lysette has yet to comment on the news, but Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies has paid tribute.
In response to a tribute post on Instagram from a Doctor Who fan, the screenwriter commented: “Oh that’s sad news.”
Actor and stand-up comedian Toby Hadoke also paid tribute to the late star.
He wrote on Instagram: “Dashing, charming, and a strong actor with a bit of a twinkle – very sorry to learn of the death, too young, of Marcus Gilbert, with whom I had a lovely time in Liverpool about a decade ago.
“He was also great in Doctor Who’s Battlefield and had a terrific role in Evil Dead 3: Army of Darkness. He also told me how much he earned from being part of the second Gold Blend saga of commercials: eye-watering! Lovely chap: wore his attributes lightly.”
As well as his work in TV and film, Marcus - who was once said to have been in contention for the role of James Bond but lost out to Timothy Dalton - appeared in dozens of advertisements and also worked in theatre, where he had begun his career.
Just weeks before his death, Marcus paid tribute to his late father and grandparents.
He wrote on Instagram: “This is in remembrance of my father, George Michael Gilbert (1927-1970). Sadly, I never really had the opportunity to know him very well, but I remember his panache, his sense of adventure and his larger-than-life personality. I still mourn his loss and can only guess what his influence may have become in my life.
“This is also to remember my loving grandparents, Emily and Oswald, who lost their lives that same Halloween night. I remember the smell of Wright’s Cold tar soap, cornflakes with warm milk and tales from his travels as a Royal Marine. A thought to those children who lost their parents far too early in life.”
