Former "The All-New Mickey Mouse Club" star Marque "Tate" Lynche has passed away. Lynche, who was a Mouseketeer from 1993 to 1995, was found dead in his New York City apartment Sunday afternoon, according to TMZ. He was only 34 years old.
Lynche's body was discovered by his 44-year-old roommate. While his cause of death has not yet been confirmed, police are ruling it a suspicious case and the investigation is ongoing. There was no apparent trauma to his body.
"There was no note, no pills," a police source told the New York Daily News. "We're waiting on the medical examiner."
During his Mouseketeer days, Lynche worked alongside Britney Spears, Ryan Gosling, Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera, according to Us Weekly. He was also a contestant on "American Idol" during Season 3, and appeared in an off-Broadway production of "Fame."
"Knowing Marque during the MMC days — as my little brother — I knew he was hugely talented with a passion for the arts, and a passion for life," his former "All-New Mickey Mouse Club" co-star Dale Godboldo told People. "But it was more recently while collaborating on an MMC related project that I got to know Marque as a man. He was excited to be a part of something that would encourage young people to pursue their dreams and a life of purpose. Marque was a beautiful spirit, that although had endured so much, only wanted to spread love and inspiration. I'll miss you man. I know you're flying with angels. RIP."
Several other former Mouseketeers took to social media to offer their condolences.
"This just passing my screen has taken my breath away," wrote Chasen Hampton. "Rest in peace lil man. Sending my prayers to family and our Mickey Mouse Club family. God Bless."
"Today, we mourn and acknowledge the loss of the first from our Mouseketeer clan," wrote Rhonda Bennett. "We're not exactly sure what has happened to our brother yet, however, so much love is being sent out to his family, friends, and those who cared for and loved him. Bless UP brother Marque."
"A moseka-brother passed away this weekend & most of us are finding out today," wrote Jennifer McGill. "I'm in shock. I immediately went to my album & pulled out his sweet headshot. 'Jennifer, I'm gonna miss you a lot. See ya next season. Tate.'...Marque Tate Lynch, our 'Tater Tot' you have always been loved! I know you're at peace, & I WILL see you next season. Prayers are going out to his family & our Disney family."
