Former Pop Idol star Darius Campbell Danesh found dead, he was 41
The Scottish singer-songwriter made his first appearance on UK reality competition Popstars in 2001
FORMER Pop Idol contestant Darius Campbell Danesh has been found dead at the age of 41, his family has announced. He was found in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11, but the cause of death is still unknown.
The statement from the family said: “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.”
Hailing from Scotland, the singer-songwriter and actor was known as Darius Danesh when he made his first appearance in ITV show Popstars in 2001.
He then came third in 2002’s edition of Pop Idol, behind winner Will Young and runner-up Gareth Gates, before releasing two studio albums, 2002’s Dive In and its 2004’s Live Twice.
In addition to music, he also had a successful career in the theatre, appearing in productions such as Chicago, Gone With The Wind, and the Olivier Award-winning Guys and Dolls.
Danesh credited Simon Cowell with providing career advice, adding: “I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences I’ve had and all the opportunities that it opened up and to be able to call Simon Cowell a friend and to be able to have dinner with him.”
Danesh has been living in the US for a number of years, and was previously married to Natasha Henstridge, getting married in 2011 before divorcing a few years later.
source – The Vibes