Will Young has broken his silence on the death of Darius Campbell Danesh, who passed away suddenly aged 41 earlier this week.
The 43-year-old singer who rose to fame with Darius on the 2001/2002 series of Pop Idol, took to social media to pay tribute to his fellow finalist.
Sharing a throwback photo on Instagram of the pair smiling and embracing, he gave his most sincere condolences to the Scot's family.
Read more: Former Pop Idol singer Darius Danesh tragically found dead aged just 41
The Mirror reports that Pop Idol champ, Will, wrote: "For the past few days my thoughts have been with Darius's family and will continue to be so. I found this picture a while ago taken during Pop Idol. If there was ever an example of not giving up on your dreams then Darius is top of the pile. Driven, courageous and gentle.
"My love goes to his family at this time x".
Darius' family announced the death of the late popstar and actor on August 16, noting that the cause was still being investigated after he was found dead in his apartment in Rochester, Minnesota. The singer placed third in Pop Idol 2002, while Will was crowned victor after going head-to-head with runner-up Gareth Gates.
Following the show, Darius turned down an offer from Simon Cowell for a record deal, instead opting to go into business with Steve Lillywhite - whose credits include the likes of U2 and the Rolling Stones. His debut track, Colourblind, was released in July later that year, and flew straight to number one in the UK singles charts.
Darius also forged a successful acting career, appearing in the likes of Chicago as Billy Flynn during two runs of the coveted production. He also starred in Guys and Dolls, Gone With The Wind and other West End shows.
A number of other tributes from fellow friends and colleagues alike flooded in upon the announcement of Darius' death - including a touching message from former Pop Idol hosts Ant & Dec, who tweeted: “We are very sorry to hear of the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh at such a tragically young age.
“We had many laughs with him on his Pop Idol journey. Our hearts go out to his lovely family. #RIP” followed by a praying hands emoji.
Gareth Gates, also shared: "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 x".
Following his death, Colourblind has re-entered the music charts and on Wednesday morning was listed in the first spot on the iTunes download chart.
Read next:
- Former Pop Idol hosts Ant and Dec pay tribute to singer Darius Campbell Danesh following his death
- Simon Cowell's tribute to late Darius Danesh - 'absolute tragedy'
- Lorraine Kelly and Rylan lead Darius Danesh tributes as Pop Idol star dies just 41
County Durham's Zoe Birkett pays tribute to former Pop Idol co-star Darius Danesh
Dame Deborah James told mum 'I don't want to die' just days before tragic death
