Simon Cowell pays tribute to late Pop Idol star Darius Danesh: ‘He was a great person to be with’

ok.co.uk:

Simon Cowell has broken his silence in light of Darius Danesh’s death. Darius was found in his apartment in Minnesota, US, on 11 August, his family confirmed.They added: “The cause of his sudden death is unknown at this stage while medical examinations continue.” In the wake of the tragic news, people have been sharing their condolences, with Simon, 62, having now voiced his. “I first saw Darius on television over 20 years ago and I got to know him really well,” he told PA. “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.” Fellow former Pop Idol judge Nicki Chapman has also spoken out.

She said: “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,” she added.

In a statement announcing the news of his passing, Darius' family shared: “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.” Darius was first on our screens when he auditioned for Popstars.