Friday saw the unexpected death of Michael Johns, a Perth-born musician, best known outside of Australia for his 2007 appearance on American Idol. He was 35.

Michael Johns
Johns' death was attributed to a blood clot following his twisted ankle.

Johns quickly became a fan favorite for his soulful voice and good looks, after auditioning with the Otis Redding song I’ve Been Loving You Too Long. He never made it past the finalist stage and finished eight on the show, but went on to become that rare gem – and American Idol alum to achieve success post-show. He had a thriving music career and appeared on the TV special Hit Man: David Foster and Friends as well as various charity functions.

Since then, Johns’ family members have come out with a statement, quoted by the Daily Mail: 'Our family is devastated by the passing of our beloved Michael, a wonderful husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend.

'We appreciate the outpouring of love and support we have received from all corners of the globe. Please keep Michael in your thoughts and respect our need to grieve privately in this difficult time.'

Johns had reportedly twisted his ankle and died from a blood clot following the injury. His body was found on a friend’s couch. Michael’s stepbrother Alan Burke took to social media to pay tribute to Mr Johns on Sunday. 

'Michael, our brother. I can't believe that you are gone,' he wrote on Facebook.

'I am still in shock and feel totally gutted right now. I can't believe we won't ever hear that golden voice of yours again. You and I were bonded with music and I cherished that and I'm going to miss that. RIP my brother.'