Gareth Gates has posted an emotional tribute to his “dear friend” Darius Danesh, who died, aged 41.
Danesh was a Scottish singer and actor who rose to fame on Popstars and Pop Idol, where he competed against Gates in 2002.
In an Instagram post shared Tuesday (16 August), Gates wrote: “I can’t quite believe the news of my dear friend Darius passing. I’m heartbroken.
“Darius took me under his wing during our time in Pop Idol, like a big brother; always looking out for me and for that I thank you my friend. I will miss our chats.”
He added: “He was one of the most beautiful, intelligent and gentle souls I was lucky enough to know, a soul that lit up every room. Goodbye my friend. Forever in my heart.”
The star’s death was announced by his family in a statement which read: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh.
“Darius was found unresponsive in bed in his apartment room in Rochester, Minnesota, on 11 August and was pronounced dead in the afternoon by the local medical examiners’ office.”
