Darius Danesh's ex-wife leads emotional tributes to the star as he passes away aged 41

Darius Campbell Danesh found fame back in 2001 when he appeared in Popstars, and then came third in the hit show Pop Idol in 2002.

Although Darius came in third after the winner of the series, Will Young, and the second place contestant, Gareth Gates, this show made Darius a household name in the UK back in the early noughties. 

Devastatingly, it has just been announced By Darius' family that the singer passed away on Thursday, August 11. A statement from the family 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," concluded the statement.

Leading the emotional tributes to the late Darius, the singer's ex-wife Natasha Henstridge took to social media to share a post of them and their two sons, Tristan River and Asher Sky. The post has since been deleted but the caption from the Canadian actress read, "'I have found the paradox that if you love until it hurts there can be no more hurt – only more love’ – Mother Theresa. There are no words Darius… only Love Love Love. Forever Janam." The couple married in 2011 and began divorce proceedings in 2013 which was finalized in 2018.

Strictly 2021 contestant Dan Walker also shared his condolences on Twitter. "Genuinely shocked by the sad news about Darius Danesh. I only met / interviewed him twice but he was proper gent on both occasions. Deepest condolences to his family," said the presenter.

Gareth Gates who worked alongside Darius on Pop Idol took to Instagram to share a heartfelt post. "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," Gareth added, "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. Good bye my friend. Forever in my heart x"

Simon Cowell, a former Pop Idol judge told PA news agency, "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."