High profile Scottish hairdresser Taylor Ferguson has paid tribute to Pop Idol star Darius Danesh and revealed the date of his death coincided with the 20th anniversary of his first number one single Colourblind.
Taylor and his wife Anne admitted their 'hearts are broken' following the news of Darius’s shock death on August 11, at the age of just 41. The couple last saw the singer when he popped in for a hair cut in March this year - while his pal Gerard Butler also visited the salon.
And the pair told how they were close friends of Bearsden-born Darius, who even attended their son's wedding back in 2002, while Colourblind was UK Number 1.
Taylor said: “Devastated at the shocking news of the sudden death of our dearly loved friend Darius. Only 41. Our hearts are broken. We knew Darius from back in his Pop Idol days and he became a family friend.
“We celebrated our son and daughter-in-law's 20th wedding anniversary last Thursday. That date coincided with the 20th anniversary of Darius getting his first number one with Colourblind. He recalled fondly: “Indeed Darius came to the wedding and all the guests toasted his chart success - and of course we danced to the track.
"So painfully sad to learn that he'd died on that very day. Our thoughts, prayers and love go to his lovely family. Darius - you'll always be with us."
Taylor, who described Darius as 'always super kind and generous' continued: “He was a regular in the salon - most recently he popped in with his friend Gerard Butler. He always caused a stir - sometimes singing for our clients. Always super kind and generous.
"He'd buy the team lunch. We'd listen to his latest stories and learn about his projects - and his love life. He was a gem.”
A statement from his family 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 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."
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