Simon Cowell, Gareth Gates and Pop Idol judge Nicki Chapman are among stars sharing their heartbreak following the death of Darius Campbell Danesh, aged 41.
Pop Idol judge Simon told MailOnline: “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.”
The X Factor judge also said that Darius had recently visited his Malibu home for a party.
Gareth Gates, who appeared on Pop Idol with Darius in 2002, said: “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.”
Nicki, who also judged the ITV show, penned on Twitter: “There will only ever be one Darius Campbell Danesh.
“A true gent with a kind soul and mischievous twinkle in his eye. From that eventful first audition on Popstars to him kindly inviting me to see him perform on the West End stage.
Thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”
Lorraine Kelly said: “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.”
Rylan added: “Proper sad about Darius.”
And GB News’ Dan Wootton echoed: “Darius. No. One hell of a Pop Idol. Terrible news.”
Author Melanie Blake explained that she knew Darius “well” and had been left shocked by the tragic news.
She said: “I literally can’t believe this news about #Darius – I knew him well at one point but lost touch in Covid.
“He was such a special guy, nothing like the character Pop Idol painted him out to be. Not only did he achieve all he said he would but he was very deep and I won’t forget him.”
“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 and had such a natural warmth about him. Rest in peace lovely man.”
Actor Matthew Marsden also tweeted: “This is truly heartbreaking. I first met Darius when he auditioned for the Big Breakfast weather man years ago.
“He was a terrific human being. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”
Darius’ death was announced on Tuesday after his family released a heartfelt statement.
It read: “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.”