Cory Monteith, known internationally for his role as Finn Hudson in Fox's popular musical drama Glee, was found dead by hotel staff after he failed to check out of a Vancouver room, according to USA Today. Melissa Kates, Monteith's publicist, confirmed the 31 year-old's death: "We are so saddened to confirm that the reports on the death of Cory Monteith are accurate. We are in shock and mourning this tragic loss."

Cory Monteith
Cory Monteith Has Passed Away Age 31.

It is not yet known what led to Monteith's untimely death but Monteith had been a lead cast member on Glee since the musical series launched in 2009, playing Finn Hudson - a football player who joins his high school's glee club choir, New Directions. The Calgary-born actor checked into the hotel on 6th July and was scheduled to check out on Saturday (13th July). When he failed to do so, the hotel staff were alerted and discovered his body when they went to check the room. Vancouver Acting Police Chief Doug LePard announced that Monteith was found alone: "An autopsy is scheduled for Monday. The Coroner will be determining the next steps with respect to establishing cause of death, but all indications are that there was no foul play."

Glee cast
Monteith [L] Pictured With Members Of Glee's Cast.

Monteith, who had been dating Glee co-star Lea Michele with the pair last seen out together at the 12th annual Chrysalis Butterfly Ball in Los Angeles, was reported to have voluntarily checked himself into rehab last March (2013) for substance addiction. At the time, Monteith's rep said that the star "graciously asks for your respect and privacy as he takes the necessary steps towards recovery." He left rehab in April, but it was not the first time the Canadian singer had checked in. According to Parade magazine in 2011, Monteith revealed his first rehab stay was at age 19 after his substance abuse escalated to the point where he was "doing anything and everything, as much as possible."

Cory Monteith Lea Michele
Cory Had Been Dating Glee Co-Star Lea Michele.

Stars have spoken of their anguish at the news of the talented actor's confusing death: "I saw him a few weeks ago in NY, looking so happy. heartbreaking.", wrote One Tree Hill actress Sophia Bush. Her voice joins many other, including Glee director Adam Shankman who tweeted "I will always cherish you in my heart. Thank you for so many wonderful days. I love you CM ..."

An autopsy is scheduled for Monday 15th July.