Pop Idol singer Darius Danesh has been found dead at his apartment in the US, his family have announced.
The 41-year-old first came to the public's attention as a contestant on Popstars in 2001, performing a memorable rendition of Britney Spears's 'Baby One More Time', before returning to screens on Pop Idol the following year.
Danesh went on to finish third, behind Gareth Gates and Will Young, before embarking on a career as a solo artist and theatre star, appearing in shows such as Guys and Dolls and Gone With The Wind.
A statement 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.
"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."
Watch the video for Darius's number one single 'Colourblind' below:
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