Gareth Gates has paid tribute to his fellow Pop Idol star Darius Campbell Danesh after he sadly passed away earlier this month.
In a statement, Gareth, 38, described Darius as his 'big brother' and spoke about their time on the signing contest in 2002.
He wrote: "I can’t quite believe the news of my dear friend Darius passing. I’m heartbroken.
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"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."
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Darius appeared on Pop Idol alongside Gareth and Will Young. While Darius came in third place, Gareth was runner up and Will won the singing contest.
Darius' family broke the news of his death yesterday (Tuesday 16 August), explaining he was found dead in his apartment room in Rochester, Minnesota, on Thursday 11 August.
The cause of death remains unknown, but police have confirmed there were no signs of 'intent or suspicious circumstances'.
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A statement from the family said: “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.”
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Darius' ex-wife, Natasha Henstridge, has also spoken out following his shock death.
Actress Natasha and Darius were married in 2011, tying the knot at the San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California after having dated for a number of years prior. The pair divorced a few years later.
In a tribute, Natasha shared pictures of them together and wrote: “There are no words Darius… only Love Love Love. Forever Janam.”
She also added a quote from Mother Teresa, which read: “I have found the paradox that if you love until it hurts there can be no more hurt - Only more love.”
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Our thoughts are with Darius' loved ones.
Lucy Devine