Gareth Gates and Pete Waterman lead tributes to Darius Campbell Danesh after his death aged 41

Virgin Radio

17 Aug 2022, 08:39

Tributes are pouring in for former Pop Idol star Darius Campbell Danesh following the news of his death aged 41.

The Popstars alum passed away at his Minnesota home on 11th August, with his family announcing the sad news via a statement yesterday (16th August).

The talented singer and West End actor came third on ITV competition Pop Idol behind Will Young and Gareth Gates in 2002, and went on to reach number one with his debut track Colourblind later that year. 

Leading tributes to Darius, Anyone of Us artist Gareth took to Instagram to say he was “heartbroken” over his “dear friend’s” death. 

He added: “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. Good bye my friend. Forever in my heart x.”

Meanwhile, music producer Pete Waterman, who was on the judging panel on Pop Idol, shared his fond memories while on TalkTV.

The record boss told Jeremy Kyle: “He came out [on Pop Idol], he sang, and I froze. This guy is different, this guy has real talent. It was quite obvious very quickly, this guy knew exactly what he was doing. 

Referencing Darius’ infamous Popstars audition where he covered Britney Spears, Pete added: “The guy sang Hit Me Baby One More Time, and changed television.”

Fellow Pop Idol judge Nicki Chapman tweeted out her own tribute, writing: “There will only ever be one Darius Campbell Danesh. 

“A true gent with a kind soul & mischievous tinkle 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”

Actor Sanjeev Bhaskar said on social media: “Sad news of Darius’ shockingly untimely passing. He was a guest on The Kumars and couldn’t have been a nicer, warmer guest with a great sense of self deprecation.”

Myleene Klass, who was part of the series of Popstars Darius auditioned for, uploaded a throwback photo of the singing hopefuls back in 2001, and wrote: “Back at the very start. RIP Darius. X”

After his Pop Idol breakthrough, Darius released his 2004 album, Dive In, which landed at number six on the album charts.

Following his time in music, Darius turned his attention to the West End, appearing in Chicago, Guys and Dolls and the theatrical adaptation of Gone With The Wind.