Darius Danesh dies aged 41: Pop Idol and West End star tragically passes away, family confirms

Glaswegian Pop Idol and West End star Darius was 41 years old

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Popstars, Pop Idol and West End star Darius Danesh has tragically died aged 41, his family have confirmed.

The singer and actor was pronounced dead this afternoon (August 16), after being found unresponsive in his apartment room in Rochester, Minnesota, USA.

Darius placed third on the first series of ITV talent show Pop Idol, behind winner Will Young and runner-up Gareth Gates, in 2002.

One year prior, Darius had auditioned for ITV show Popstars; which birthed winners Hear'Say and runner-up group Liberty X. His rendition of Britney Spears hit ...Baby One More Time on the show catapulted him into the spotlight, becoming a viewers' favourite.

Darius went on to achieve five UK Top 10 hits, including Number 1 debut single Colourblind in August 2002. His first studio album, Dive In, became a Top 10 hit later that year, charting at Number 6.

The record also spawned the hits Rushes (Number 5), Incredible (What I Meant to Say) (Number 9) and Girl in the Moon (Number 21).

Following his successful pop career, Darius became a West End star; appearing in such shows as Chicago and the Oliver Award-winning musical Guys and Dolls.

Confirming Darius' tragic passing, his family released a statement reading: "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."