Simon Cowell has remembered former Pop Idol contestant and theatre star Darius Campbell Danesh as "charismatic, funny and just a great person to be with" following the singer's death aged 41.
Darius was found dead in his apartment in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11, his family announced. In a statement, former Pop Idol judge Simon, 62, 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."
READ MORE: Darius Campbell Danesh's ex wife breaks silence on his death aged 41
Following his death, Darius' family issued a statement, which said: "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."
The cause of death remains 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.
Gareth Gates, who found fame after finishing as a runner-up on the first series of Pop Idol, paid tribute in a touching Instagram post. Alongside a picture of himself and Darius, the 38-year-old wrote: "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. Good bye my friend. Forever in my heart x."
After Pop Idol, Darius turned down Simon's offer of a record deal and signed with producer Steve Lillywhite, whose credits include U2 and the Rolling Stones.
His debut single, Colourblind, was released in July 2002 and went straight to number one, marking the start of a run of top 10 releases.
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. He lived in the US and found love with Canadian actress Natasha Henstridge, whose films include sci-fi hit Species.
The couple married in 2011 at the San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, but were divorced a few years later.
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