Talent show tycoon Simon Cowell has remembered former Pop Idol star Darius Campbell Danesh after he died aged 41.

The X Factor and Got Talent franchise creator described the singer as “charismatic, funny and just a great person to be with” following the news.

The singer and actor was found dead in his apartment in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11, his family confirmed in a statement.

The Scottish singer-songwriter rose to fame on ITV talent shows Popstars and Pop Idol 20 years ago.

The Northern Echo: Darius Danesh during an in-store appearance at Woolworths in Watford. Credit: PADarius Danesh during an in-store appearance at Woolworths in Watford. Credit: PA

Simon Cowell remembers Pop Idol star Darius Campbell Danesh

Cowell, 62, was a judge on the ITV singing competition show in 2001 during Campbell Danesh’s time as a contestant.

In a statement given to the PA news agency, Simon Cowell 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.”

The beloved Glasgow-born singer became a household name after his theatrical take of Britney Spears's Hit Me Baby One More Time and his debut UK number one single Colourblind.

Following his Pop Idol and Popstar appearances, he went on to become a West End star.

Cowell is the latest famous face to pay tribute with social media being flooded with memories of the singer and well wishes for his family. 

Presenter and former member of Hear’Say Myleene Klass posted a link to a video of Campbell Danesh performing alonsgide the caption:"“Everyone should watch this performance. Darius, you were so talented, so kind. A true family man. My thoughts are with them now.x”

Meanwhile, Liberty X member Jessica Taylor, whose group was formed on Popstars, tweeted: “I’m so sad. Darius was only 41. He was an absolute gentleman & I know all of us who did Popstars with him will remember him with huge fondness.

"He had a way of bringing us all together & had such a natural warmth about him. Rest in peace lovely man.”

TV and radio presenter Nicki Chapman was a judge on Popstars while Campbell Danesh was a contestant on the show in 2001, shared: “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.”

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