Darius Danesh had liaised with Pop Idol reunion bosses shortly before he died
(Picture: PA)Darius Campbell Danesh is said to have been thrilled to be ‘in talks’ to appear on a Pop Idol reunion special just weeks before his death.
The 41-year-old, whose death was confirmed on Tuesday, became a household name on the talent show in 2002, where he made the final three alongside runner-up Gareth Gates and winner, Will Young.
According to a source, the trio was set to reunite for a one-off programme due to be filmed in London next month and Darius Campbell was "really excited".
"It was going to be an hour-and-a-half-long special hosted by Ant and Dec and full of nostalgia for the millions of Pop Idol fans,” the friend added to The Sun.
"I spoke to Darius recently and he was in good spirits — he was his usual happy self."
The Scot, who had been initially mocked for singing an over the top rendition of Britney Spears' Hit Me Baby One More Time in his audition, became loved and respected by the nation as the competition went on.
Following the show, he famously turned down an offer from Simon Cowell to join his then Sony record label Syco and instead signed a deal with producer Steve Lillywhite.
Since his shocking passing music mogul Cowell has joined a slew of celebrities, including former Pop Idol contestants, Myleene Klass and Michelle Heaton, who have paid tribute to the star.
Cowell, 62, said in a statement: "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."
Gareth Gates was also among the first to share his sadness about the news.
The 38-year-old singer said on social media: "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 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."
Campbell Danesh was found "unresponsive" on August 11 at his US apartment in Rochester, Minnesota, his family confirmed in a statement on Tuesday.
The cause of death is not yet known, but his loved ones also stated that local police had ruled out any "signs of intent or suspicious circumstances".
