Lee Thompson Young's former co-star pays tribute

Ryan Sommers Baum has paid tribute to his former The Famous Jett Jackson co-star Lee Thompson Young following his apparent suicide.

Baum, who played Young's best friend J.B. in the Disney series, reveals he was "shocked and heartbroken" to hear the news that the 29 year old was found dead from a gunshot wound, which is said to have been self-inflicted.

He tells E! News, "Lee Thompson Young was, as many have already noted, loved and respected by all who knew and worked with him, a wise, gentle, thoughtful, tremendously funny and fun-loving young man, and a good and constant friend to me during some very formative years in my life."

Baum remained in touch with Young throughout college after the show wrapped in 2001, and he is now a minister in Iowa.

He adds, "My deepest sympathies go out to all his family and friends, especially his amazing mom, a radiant and deeply spiritual soul."