Lorraine Kelly and Rylan Clark have joined a list of stars paying tribute to Darius Danesh, who has died at the age of 41.
The popular singer and actor was found dead at his apartment in Rochester, Minnesota, his family have confirmed.
ITV presenter Lorraine was one of the first to share her condolences, tweeting: "This is really sad. Thoughts with his family and friends and everyone who loved him.
"A really good bloke - funny and kind and very talented."
Gareth Gates has since paid tribute to his "big brother" Darius who he joined on Pop Idol.
"I can’t quite believe the news of my dear friend Darius passing. I’m heartbroken," Gareth told The Sun.
"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."
Michelle Heaton Tweeted: "So sad … thoughts with Darius family right now x always our Britney."
X Factor star Rylan said: "Proper sad about Darius," Tweeting with a love heart emoji.
Pal Tanya Tate posted a heart-warming tribute on Twitter, sharing a selfie of the pair.
She said: "I am so heart broken, an amazing very dear friend Darius Danesh has passed away.
"He introduced me to mediation, to believing all things are possible, he was an inspirational mentor and friend.
"RIP Darius, your spirit will continue to soar."
Fellow popstar Jessica Pietersen from Liberty X also penned a tribute on Twitter.
She said: "I’m so sad. Darius was only 41.
"He was an absolute gentleman & I know all of us who did Popstars with him will remember him with huge fondness.
"He had a way of bringing us all together & had such a natural warmth about him. Rest in peace lovely man."
I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here winner Giovanna Fletcher has also penned a touching tribute to the popstar.
"I first worked with Darius when I was looking after child actors on Gone with The Wind back in 2008," she said.
"Since then we’ve messaged occasionally and our last exchange was over voicenote when I won I’m a Celeb.
"I can still remember how his deep voice and delectable tones instantly put a smile on my face. This man was giving to a fault, always had time for others and a smile to share.
"Thinking of his family, friends and loved ones tonight. Another reminder that tomorrow is never a guarantee."
TV presenter Nicki Chapman posted a tribute on her Instagram account.
She said: "Devastating news. There will only ever be one Darius Campbell Danesh.
"A beautiful man both inside and out. A true gent with a kind soul and mischievous tinkle in his eye.
"Whenever we saw each other over the years, it was always a joy. From that eventful first audition on Popstars and then Pop Idol, to him kindly inviting me to see him perform on the West End stage.
"And that platinum selling album? Of course! He was right. Thoughts are with his family at this sad time."
He came third on Pop Idol behind Will Young and Gareth Gates in 2002.
Darius then led his success into the West End where he performed in major shows like Chicago and Guys and Dolls, all after reaching the UK number one with his song Colourblind.
His album Dive In also reached the UK top 10.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh,” his family said in a statement.
“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.”
