Darius Campbell Danesh found dead aged 41: Corrie’s Kym Marsh pays tribute to Pop Idol singer and West End star

Tributes to singer Darius Campbell Danesh have flooded in since news of his death was announced including Corrie actress Kym Marsh who was on Popstars at the same time as Darius.

Kym Marsh, who has had a long term role in Manchester-based soap Coronation Street and currently lives in the city, paid tribute to Darius on her Twitter page.

Kym, who was part of pop group ‘Hear’Say Here’Say’, wrote: “So terribly sad to hear the news of Darius passing.

“Such a talented man with so much ahead of him. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad sad time.”

Following news of his death, Darius’ family issued 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, on August 11 and was pronounced dead in the afternoon by the local medical examiners’ office.

“The local police department has 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.”

Who was Darius Campbell Danesh?

Darius appeared on Pop Idol in 2003, finishing third behind Will Young and Gareth Gates, who both went on to achieve great success in the music industry.

Darius released his debut single ‘Colourblind’ in 2002 and two years later his debut album, ‘Dive In’ was released and reached number six in the UK charts.

He went on to have a strong career in theatre, appearing in West End hits such as ‘Chicago’ and the Olivier-award winning musical ‘Guys and Dolls’.

Darius also portrayed the role of Rhett Butler in the theatrical version of ‘Gone With The Wind’, which is one of the highest grossing movies of all time.

Tributes paid to Darius

Amongst the hundreds of tributes paid to Darius is Simon Cowell who was a judge on Pop Idol back when Darius was on the show. .

He said: “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.”

Gareth Gates, who appeared on the same series of Pop Idol as Darius, 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 x”

TV presenters Ant and Dec also paid tribute to Darius as they tweeted: “We are very sorry to hear of the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh at such a tragically young age.

“We had many laughs with him on his Pop Idol journey. Our hearts go out to his lovely family.”

Nicky Chapman, who was a judge on Pop idol, tweeted: “There will only ever be one Darius Campbell Danesh.

“A true gent with a kind soul & 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.”