'You' star Mark Blum dies at 69 due to coronavirus complications

Actor Mark Blum, best known for his work in theater and movies such as Desperately Seeking Susan and Crocodile Dundee, has died at the age of 69 due to complications from the coronavirus, Fox News has reported.

Blum's widow, Janet Zarish, later confirmed reports of Blum's death in an email to Fox News, reading: "My husband passed away yesterday, March 25th, from complications from the Corona Virus.  He died at New York-Presbyterian Hospital."

Blum will perhaps be best remembered by younger audiences for his role as Mr. Mooney in the popular Netflix series You, in which he played the owner of Mooney's bookstore and Joe's former boss.

Speaking to The Wrap, Desperately Seeking Susan star Rosanna Arquette talked about her upset over the loss of her former costar:

"I’m sad about this. He was really very kind, was always supportive and funny, a gentleman and a great actor who loved the work. I’m so sad for his family and all the people who love him. This is a tragedy on so many levels. Rest in peace and power Mark Blum."

Another of Blum's Desperately Seeking Susan costars, popstar Madonna, also taken to social media to pay her respects to the late star, writing:

"I Want to Acknowledge the Passing of a remarkable Human, fellow actor and friend Mark Blum, who succumbed to Coronavirus. This is really tragic and my heart goes out to him, his family and his loved ones. I remember him as funny warm, loving .and professional when we made Desperately Seeking Susan in 1985!! Another reminder that this virus is no joke, nothing to be casual about or pretend wont affect us in some way. we need to stay grateful -be hopeful- help each other-and follow the quarantine rules! [sic]"

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The Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) executive vice president Rebecca Damon shared the sad on Twitter, noting that he was previously on the labor union's board.

Damon wrote in a series of tweets:

"It is with such deep sorrow that I’m writing to share the news that our friend and former board member Mark Blum has passed away as a result of complications from the coronavirus. Mark was a dedicated Screen Actors Guild and SAG-AFTRA board member serving from 2007-2013.

"A passionate champion for merger, and a tireless advocate for members. Those of us lucky enough to have known him will treasure our memories of a gifted actor, a master teacher, a loyal friend, and a beautiful human.

"On a personal note - I always appreciated Mark’s clear perception of complex situations. He always spoke the truth and did a great service in informing members of our community about the ins and outs of the union whenever he had the opportunity.

"Mark was smart, funny, and a true actor’s actor. He will be deeply missed. Thinking of you all.  Please #stayhome. #COVID19"

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Sharing their tributes to the late actor, the New York City-based group Playwrights Horizons also took to Twitter to share their thoughts on Blum:

"With love and heavy hearts, Playwrights Horizons pays tribute to Mark Blum, a dear longtime friend and a consummate artist who passed this week. Thank you, Mark, for all you brought to our theater, and to theaters and audiences across the world. We will miss you."