'Pop Idol' contestant Darius Campbell Danesh has died

Singer was known for his 2002 song 'Colourblind'

'Pop Idol' contestant and theatre actor Darius Campbell Danesh has died at the age of 41.

The news was announced by his family on Tuesday afternoon.

A statement from his family read "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 11th 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," the statement read.

The singer came to prominence as a contestant on the UK reality show 'Pop Idol', finishing 3rd in the 2002 edition of the show behind singers Will Young and Gareth Gates.

The Scotsman scored a number one hit in 2002 with the track 'Colourblind' and went on to have a highly successful career on the West End, appearing in the likes of 'Guys and Dolls', 'Chicago', and 'Gone With The Wind'.