Pop Idol’s Darius Campbell Danesh Dead At Age 41

Darius Campbell Danesh’s quirky rendition of Britney Spears’ hit song Baby One More Time on the ITV show Popstars in 2001 was his first bid at fame. Although he did not make it into the band, the following year he appeared on the first season of Pop Idol, Darius placed third, trailing another household name in Gareth Gates. Sadly, the singer was found dead on August 11 in Rochester, Minnesota.

According to BBC, Darius, a former Pop Idol contestant and theatre star, has passed away. His family announced today that he was found unresponsive in his US apartment room at the age of 41. The singer and actor was found dead on August 11 in Rochester, Minnesota, however, the exact cause of death is still unknown. His family announced it in a statement.

“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 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.”

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“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.”

Police have also said there were “no signs of intent or suspicious circumstances,” his relatives also confirmed. Fans and celebrities, such as singer-turned-presenter Rylan Clark, who also rose to popularity on X Factor, paid tribute. Also, Sanjeev Bhaskar, an actor, and broadcaster James O’Brien both conveyed their condolences.

“Proper sad about Darius.”

“Sad news of Darius’ shockingly untimely passing. He was a guest on The Kumars and couldn’t have been a nicer, warmer guest with a great sense of self deprecation.”

“Darius was a lovely bloke. He came across as very confident and ambitious on TV but away from the cameras he was gentle, generous, humble and utterly devoted to his little brothers.”

The Scottish performer went on to carve out a successful theatre 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 was in a relationship with Canadian actress Natasha Henstridge, whose films include the sci-fi hit Species. The couple married at the San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, in 2011, but they later got divorced.

Our sincere condolences go out to the family. May his soul rest in peace. To get the latest updates, keep an eye on Thirsty.