Pop Idol fans were devastated when it was announced that singer Darius Campbell Danesh had died in his home at the age of 41. And now, the heartbreaking call has revealed the moment the Pop Idol star was found unresponsive in his apartment in the US.
The Colourblind singer's death has shaken the showbiz industry with his devastated family confirming the tragic news in a statement on Tuesday, revealing that he had died 'suddenly'.
Although the exact cause of the singer's death is not yet known, the heartbreaking 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." Following the news of Darius' untimely death, a police dispatch, obtained by The Sun, reveals a call was placed at 11.53am when a 'medical' team was requested for a 'possible deceased' person.
A few moments later, another call came through from an operator saying: “No need for them to respond. We'll be waiting for Rochester Police Department to arrive on the scene. We'll secure the residence." The Public Information Officer for the Rochester Police Department told the publication: “Officers responded to a deceased person call at 11.53am on August 11.
“The Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner’s Office identified the person as Darius Campbell, age 41.” “The investigation into the cause of his death is still pending. There is no known threat to the public.” Darius' cause of death is still unknown.
The Scottish 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.
Following the shock news of the singer's death, tributes have flooded in. Music mogul Simon, 62, called Darius' death an 'absolute tragedy' in a gushing tribute.
The pair had appeared on Pop Idol together back in 2002, with Syco boss Simon in the judging seat as Darius impressed with his vocal talents. 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.”
Former Pop Idol star Gareth Gates also rushed to share his condolences after learning the devastating news of Darius' death at 41. Gareth, 38, described his Pop Idol co-star as his 'big brother' as he penned: "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."
Darius' ex-wife, Natasha Henstridge, also shared her own emotional words as she quoted Mother Theresa in her heartbreaking tribute. Despite the pair being divorced, Natasha showed her on-going love for the star as she shared a string of sweet photos of the pair in the now deleted post.
The Canadian actress and model, 48, who was married to the former Pop Idol star for two years from 2011 to 2013, penned: "I have found the paradox that is you love until it hurts. there can be no more hurt- Only more love -Mother Theresa. "There are no words Darius… only Love Love Love. Forever Janam."
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