Tributes have began to pour in after former Pop Idol star Darius Campbell Danesh was found dead aged 41.
The singer and actor was found dead in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11 – although the cause of death remains unknown, his family confirmed in a statement.
Within the statement, Campbell’s family described his death as a “great sadness” and a “tragic loss.”
The statement said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh.
Darius Campbell Danesh
Ian West
“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.”
Responding to Campbell’s death, West End actress and singer Carrie Hope Fletcher tweeted: “This is such sad news” and shared a broken heart emoji.
Michelle Heaton is among those to have sent a tribute following Campbell's death
Ian West
While actor Sanjeev Bhaskar wrote: “Sad news of Darius' shockingly untimely passing. He was a guest on The Kumars and couldn't have been a nicer, warmer guest with a great sense of self deprecation.”
English singer and member of pop group Liberty X Michelle Heaton tweeted: “So sad … thoughts with Darius family right now x always our Britney” followed by a red heart and a rainbow emoji.
TV and radio presenter Nicki Chapman has also paid tribute, adding: “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 Scottish singer-songwriter and actor – who was known as Darius Danesh when he made his first bid for fame in the show Popstars in 2001 – also appeared on the first Pop Idol, which was won by Will Young.
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.