TV judge and music mogul Simon Cowell has paid tribute to Darius Danesh, labelling his long-time friend's death as an 'absolute tragedy'.
The two appeared together on the first ever series of Pop Idol back in 2002, with Simon appearing as one of the judges while Darius impressed across the board with his singing abilities.
Darius' family devastatingly announced the Scot singer and actor's death aged 41 today, after his body was found in his Minnesota apartment. The cause of his death has not yet been confirmed.
Read more: Former Pop Idol singer Darius Danesh tragically found dead aged just 41
The Mirror reports that paying tribute, Simon said: "I first saw Darius on television over 20 years ago and I got to know him really well. He was charismatic, funny and just a great person to be with.
“His passing, for someone so young, is an absolute tragedy and my heart goes out to his family and friends.”
An emotional statement from the late singer's family was released this afternoon, reading: "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 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."
Nicki Chapman was the first of Darius' judges to share their condolences over his death, taking to social media to pen: "There will only ever be one Darius Campbell Danesh. A true gent with a kind soul & mischievous tinkle in his eye. From that eventful first audition on Popstars to him kindly inviting me to see him perform on the West End stage
"Thoughts are with his family at this sad time."
The successful singer-songwriter and actor - who was known as Darius Danesh when he made his first bid for fame in ITV show Popstars in 2001 - also appeared on the first Pop Idol, which was won by Will Young. After his successful stint in Pop Idol, he was offered a record deal by Simon Cowell - which he turned down in favour of working with producer Steve Lillywhite.
He went on to forge a successful stage career, appearing in Chicago as Billy Flynn in two runs of the production, as well as Guys And Dolls, Gone With The Wind and more in the West End.
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