Darius Danesh's last laugh after turning down Simon Cowell to have hit single on his own

He famously turned down Simon Cowell’s tempting offer for a record deal – but Darius Campbell Danesh had the last laugh.

The singer and actor, who has died aged 41, went on to great success with his hit-song Colourblind which became a UK number one.

He found fame as a finalist on Pop Idol, but despite coming third he was still offered a deal by music tycoon and talent show host Simon.

Fans were left stunned when Darius said no to Simon and opted to join producer Steve Lillywhite, who collaborated with him on Colourblind.

Speaking in 2014, Darius said it was the “obvious thing to do” and that famous decision led to a successful career in the music industry.

Darius famously said no to an offer from Simon Cowell (daily record)

Despite the refusal he still went on to have a successful career (Sami Drasin/NBC via Getty Images)

Despite coming third on Pop Idol behind Will Young and Gareth Gates in 2002, he still had chart-topping success and his album Dive In also reached the UK top 10.

He then broke into the West End with a stint in major shows like Chicago and Guys and Dolls.

“When Simon Cowell offered me a contract and I turned it down, it seemed like the obvious thing to do,” he told Hello.

“I understand why people thought I was mad to do it, but if I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have a number one with Colourblind.

He turned down a tempting offer from Simon Cowell (ITV)

“I would just have been doing covers and then nobody would have heard of me ever again.

“I’m so lucky to be able to do what I love without having to beat to the drum of having someone else telling you what to wear and how to act.”

The tragic news was announced earlier this evening that the popular musician had been found dead at his US apartment last week.

He was found dead inside his home in Rochester, Minnesota, his family confirmed.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh,” his family said in a statement.

He was found dead in his apartment in Rochester, Minnesota (The People)

“Darius was found unresponsive in bed in his apartment room in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11 and was pronounced dead in the afternoon by the local medical examiners' office.

“The local police department have confirmed that there were no signs of intent or suspicious circumstances.

“The cause of his sudden death is unknown at this stage while medical examinations continue.

“We ask that you kindly respect our wishes for privacy at this time whilst we come to terms with the tragic loss of our son and brother.”