Joe Diffie Dies at 61 from Coronavirus Complications

The 1990s country star, Joe Diffie, passed away due to complications related to the coronavirus - two days after sharing his positive test results with followers.

Known for his crowd-pleasing hits as much as for his mullet and mustache, Joe Diffie passed away on Sunday due to coronavirus complications.

With no less than twenty Top 10 hits and 13 albums to his name, Joe first shared news of his positive test results on Friday. In a statement, Joe implored followers to be "vigilant" after elaborating on the status of his health as he said:

"I am under the care of medical professionals and currently receiving treatment. My family and I are asking for privacy at this time."

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native reached mainstream success with lighthearted tributes to country life. Hits like "Pickup Man," "John Deere Green," and "Third Rock From the Sun" got the feet tapping while he also ran a small recording studio with his father.

Feeling the loss of a legend, fellow country star Carrie Underwood paid tribute to Joe after hearing the sad news, as she wrote:

"Absolutely no words for the loss of Joe Diffie. The music and legacy he leaves behind are legendary. Prayers for his family and friends."

Apart from being a member of the Grand Ole Opry for 25 years, the Oklahoma Music Hall of Famer earned a Grammy Award in 1998 for his collaboration on "Same Old Train."

Previously, Joe received a Grammy nomination for his duet with Mary Chapin Carpenter on "Not Too Much to Ask." Heartbroken at Joe's passing, Keith Urban extended his condolences to the 61-year-old's family with a short tribute:

Brad Paisley also took to social media to honor his friend. Alongside a short clip taken with Joe, Brad wrote that he will always remember the "twinkle in his eye," his voice, and the memories they made together even though he doesn't have "adequate words" to describe how he feels.

Joe Diffie's passing comes shortly after the loss of another legend in the entertainment industry due to the coronavirus pandemic - longtime actor, Mark Blum.

Last week, Broadway actor Mark Blum's passing at the age of 69 hit the news after Playwrights Horizons confirmed the passing of their "dear longtime friend" with "heavy hearts."