Last picture of Darius Campbell Danesh before he was found dead aged 41

Darius Campbell Danesh was last pictured out in Malibu with actor Gerard Butler in June – two months before he was found dead in his bed at the age of 41.

The former Pop Idol contestant and theatre star was found unresponsive in his apartment in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11 – although the cause of death remains unknown.

The two men – who became friends after Darius moved to America – were seen walking barefoot towards Malibu beach as the late singer walked his dog.

The picture was taken nine weeks before Darius’ shock passing on June 11.

Daris was wearing a baker boy style flat during the outing with a pair of trousers rolled up to his knees.

Gerard, who lives in the Malibu area, walked ahead wearing a pale blue polo shirt and a pair of jeans.

Darius, who was married to Canadian actress Natasha Henstridge, whose films include sci-fi hit Species, from 2011-201 and has been based in the U.S. for the past fifteen years.

The couple married in 2011 at the San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, but were divorced a few years later. He previously told the Scottish Herald: ‘That relationship was certainly not without its ups and downs. Over the course of 12 years, we broke up many times and had a period of six months apart.

‘It was often a long-distance relationship for half of it. That in itself was an amazing experience, but a painful one. When you love someone you want to be with them.’ 

As well as becoming friendly with A-lister Gerard, 52, he also also become close with other stars including Rebel Wilson.

During his stint stateside, Darius became a successful actor and producer and was known for Imperium (2016), Tomorrow (2018) and Hotel Babylon (2006).

Darius’ family wrote in a tweet announcing the news on Tuesday: ‘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 and was pronounced dead in the afternoon by the local medical examiners’ office.’ 

Police have said there were ‘no signs of intent or suspicious circumstances’, his relatives also confirmed. 

Danesh made his first bid for fame in ITV show Popstars in 2001 with his quirky rendition of Britney Spears’ Baby One More Time.  

He did not make it into the band but the following year appeared on the first Pop Idol, which was won by Will Young, with Darius finishing third behind another household name in Gareth Gates.

The Scottish performer went on to forge a successful theatre career, appearing in Chicago as Billy Flynn in two runs of the production, as well as Guys And Dolls, Gone With The Wind and more in the West End.

He lived in the US and was in a relationship with Canadian actress Natasha Henstridge, whose films include sci-fi hit Species.

The couple married in 2011 at the San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, but had since divorced.

A family statement 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.’

Following the news that the Scottish singer had passed away, a slew of stars took to social media to offer their sympathies, including Lorraine Kelly, Adele Roberts and Rylan. 

Responding the news of his death, actress Carrie Hope Fletcher tweeted today: ‘This is such sad news’ and shared a broken heart emoji. 

He first shot to fame when he appeared on Popstars in 2001 before going on to defy critics and enjoy a successful music and theatre career.

In a performance regarded by most as cringey when it aired at the time, Darius garnered attention for his cover of Britney Spears’s Hit Me Baby One More Time sporting his memorable ponytail and goatee on the ITV talent show.

After Pop Idol in 2002, Danesh turned down Simon Cowell’s offer of a record deal and signed with producer Steve Lillywhite, whose credits include U2 and the Rolling Stones.

His debut single, Colourblind, was released in July 2002 and went straight to number one, marking the start of a run of top 10 releases.

As the accolades began pouring in for the acclaimed singer and songwriter’s career, his first solo album Dive In went platinum, while his first West End stage appearance came as Billy Flynn in the iconic Chicago.