British pop idol star 'Darius Campbell Danesh' dies at 41 years old

Darius Campbell Danish
Photo by AP Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Darius Campbell Danesh, a pop idol star and actor who gained attention after appearing on a British reality show, passed away on the 11th (local time). He was 41 years old.

According to the AP News and others on the 16th, Danesh's family stated, "Danesh was found dead at his home in Rochester, Minnesota, USA," adding, "The police investigation found no suspicious circumstances, and the exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed."

Born in 1980 in Glasgow, Scotland, Danesh rose to fame in 2002 by appearing on the British survival program 'Pop Idol,' which featured the world-renowned music producer Simon Cowell. Danesh placed third in the program and later that year topped the UK music charts with the single "Colorblind" from his debut album 'Dive In.'

Cowell expressed his condolences upon hearing the news of Danesh's death, saying, "Danesh was charismatic, fun, and a great person to be around. His death is very tragic and heartbreaking."

Danesh was also recognized for successfully transitioning into acting. He played major roles in the musicals 'Chicago' and 'Guys and Dolls' performed in London's West End. In 2008, he starred as the male lead 'Rhett Butler' in a musical adaptation of the novel 'Gone with the Wind,' but the production faced difficulties due to poor reviews and low ticket sales, leading to an early closure.

However, in 2010, overcoming his slump, he won the British reality show 'Popstar to Operastar.' Danesh demonstrated talent in opera as well, taking on his first lead role in the opera 'Carmen' performed in London.

Danesh also ventured into Hollywood. In 2016, he was a co-producer of the horror film 'Imperium,' starring Daniel Radcliffe, known for his role as the protagonist in the Harry Potter series.

After his parents recovered from cancer, he participated in social contribution activities by supporting various cancer-related organizations, including the UK Cancer Research Institute.