Devastated fans and celebrity friends paid tribute to Il Divo star Carlos Marin on Sunday evening after the singer’s shattered bandmates confirmed he had lost his battle with COVID-19, aged 53.
Simon Cowell, TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli were among those to share fond memories of the Spanish baritone, whose life-support was turned off just days after he was placed in a medically induced coma at Manchester Royal Hospital.
Marin, who had been fully vaccinated, fell ill with the respiratory virus on December 7th and was intubated while in medical care after having his oxygen ‘compromised’.
Confirming his death on Twitter, bandmates David Miller, Sébastien Izambard and Urs Bühler said: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we are letting you know that our friend and partner, Carlos Marin, has passed away.
‘He will be missed by his friends, family and fans. There will never be another voice or spirit like Carlos. For 17 years the four of us have been on this incredible journey of Il Divo together, and we will miss our dear friend.
‘We hope and pray that his beautiful soul will rest in peace. With Love — David, Sebastien and Urs.’
Simon Cowell wrote in tribute: ‘I am finding this so difficult to put into words how I feel right now.
‘I am devastated Carlos Marin has passed away. He loved life. He loved performing and always had so much appreciation towards the fans who supported the group from day 1. Rest in peace Carlos. I will miss you.’
Meanwhile Kelly, who interviewed the operatic band numerous times, Tonioli and actress Emma Kennedy were among the first to react as news of his death broke.
Taking to Twitter, the breakfast TV presenter wrote: ‘This is so sad. I had the joy of interviewing Carlos and @ildivoofficial many times over the years. He was such a class act. Thoughts with everyone who loved him.’
Tonioli added: ‘Devastated @ildivoofficial @carlosmarin_ passed away We had the best time putting together the first @ildivoofficial performance 17 yeas ago great voice great man a true passionate Spirit with wicked sense of humor we will miss you so sad.’ [sic]
Singer Michael Ball wrote in tribute: ‘Unbelievably sad to hear of the the passing of the lovely @carlosmarin, a charismatic, charming and hugely talented man. A total one off. Sending my love to all his family and friends. #RIPCarlosMarin.’
Paying tribute to Marin, Emma Kennedy urged others to protect themselves against the virus, writing: ‘Carlos Marin news is horrible. Get vaccinated. Get boosted. RIP.’
Welsh baritone and X Factor series four runner-up Rhydian Roberts was also amongst those affected by the news that broke on Sunday.
‘Heartbreaking. I’m so sorry to hear this news. Carlos oozed charisma and had a velvety smooth baritone. Sending condolences to his family and the rest of il Divo @ildivoofficial,’ he wrote.
Elsewhere, series eight winners of Britain’s Got Talent, musical theatre based group Collabro, shared a photo with the late star and praised his ‘spectacular’ voice and stage presence.
‘We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Carlos Marín. His voice and stage presence were spectacular and he was as brilliant off stage as he was whilst performing. Sending love to @ildivoofficial during this very difficult time,’ they wrote in full.
