Arik Marshall has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help repay debts to his landlord as he faces the risk of homelessness

Set up by Gisette Hidalgo, the campaign details how Arik's financial situation worsened following the death of his best friend and employer, which left him without his main source of income.

Gisette said Arik's troubles began several years ago when the coronavirus pandemic severely disrupted live music work, adding that he has also been battling significant health issues - writing: "Arik was also diagnosed with a serious health condition which left him with a weakened immune system. All of this triggered a bad period of depression and several years of reclusiveness. Arik struggled to find consistent work and fell deeper in debt to his landlord."

She added her hope is for musicians and fans alike to help support Arik, saying she wishes some of his "famous peers will see the page and either use their resources to kindly help him out or share his plight with their followers".

Arik was photographed last year alongside Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith at a concert in Malibu, suggesting he remains connected to former bandmates.

He joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1992 after replacing guitarist John Frusciante, who left the band during their Blood Sugar Sex Magik tour.

Arik toured extensively with the group, performing major shows including a headline slot at Lollapalooza festival.

Speaking to Guitar World magazine in 1992 about his first performance with the band, Arik said: "My first show with the Peppers was in front of 60,000 people in Belgium. It was at a huge festival with Bryan Adams, Lou Reed and Smashing Pumpkins. I think it went well.

"Surprisingly, I wasn't that nervous. I think it would have been a lot stranger if the Chili Peppers weren't so cool and down-to-earth and easy to work with. They really helped me feel comfortable."

The Peppers' bassist Flea has described Arik as "very considerate of other people at all times".

However, his time with the band was short-lived and in 1993 he was replaced by guitarist Jesse Tobias, who was in turn succeeded by Dave Navarro.

Before joining the Peppers, Arik played in Los Angeles funk bands Marshall Law, Trulio Disgracias and Afejirk.

He later worked as a session musician for artists including Sting and the late Etta James.

Arik went on to perform with Macy Gray and appeared with her in the Spider-Man movie.

He also featured in the 2009 film The Hangover, which starred Bradley Cooper and Zach Galifianakis.