Actor Mark Blum dead at 69 due to coronavirus complications

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Actor Mark Blum, known for his work in theater as well as in films "Desperately Seeking Susan," "Crocodile Dundee" and the Netflix series "You," died at age 69  due to complications from the coronavirus. 

Blum's widow, Janet Zarish confirmed reports of Blum's death to Fox News.

"My husband passed away yesterday, March 25th, from complications from the Corona Virus.  He died at New York-Presbyterian Hospital," she said in an email.

SAG-AFTRA executive vice president Rebecca Damon also confirmed the news on Twitter, noting that he was previously on the organization's board.

"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."

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Damon continued: "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."

The New York City-based group Playwrights Horizons also tweeted about Blum’s death, writing: "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."

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According to TheWrap, Blum was a fixture of the New York theater community who appeared on Broadway in Neil Simon’s "Lost in Yonkers," Gore Vidal’s "The Best Man" and many more. Born in New Jersey, Blum reportedly got his start on stage in the early 1970s before making the transition to the screen. He began with a role in the 1983 film "Lovesick" followed by "St. Elsewhere" the following year. 

The SAG-AFTRA executive vice president confirmed that actor Mark Blum died due to complications from the coronavirus. (Andrew Toth/Getty Images)

He starred alongside Rosanna Arquette in the 1985 film "Desperately Seeking Susan." 

"I’m sad about this. He was really very kind, was always supportive and funny, a gentle man and a great actor who loved the work," Arquette told TheWrap. "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."

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More recently, Blum played Union Bob on the Amazon series "Mozart in the Jungle" and Mr. Mooney in the Netflix drama "You."