Darius Danesh: Pop idol and West End star dies aged 41

Singer and actor Darius Campbell Danesh, who rose to fame on ITV talent shows Popstars and Pop Idol two decades ago, has died at the age of 41.

The Scot came third on Pop Idol behind Will Young and Gareth Gates in 2002.

He reached number one in the UK later that year with Colourblind, while his album Dive In reached the top 10.

He went on to become a West End star, appearing in musicals like Chicago and the Oliver Award-winning Guys and Dolls.

He was found dead in his US apartment room, his family announced on Tuesday.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh," they said in a statement. "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."

He first attracted attention on Popstars with his theatrical cover of Britney Spears' Baby One More Time before resurfacing on Pop Idol minus the ponytail and beard and with a new attitude that took him to the final three.