Michael Johns from American Idol

Long-time fans of FOX’s American Idol were no doubt shocked to learn that 35-year-old Michael Johns, a top-ten finalist from Season 7, died suddenly on August 1, 2014. He was only 35.

SezOz tweeted on Saturday, Aug. 2, “It is with a heavy heart and inconsolable sadness that we confirm the passing of our friend Michael Johns. No other details will b(e) avail(able) at this time.”

The cause of Johns’ sudden death was believed to be a blood clot that developed in his ankle following a sprain.

Melinda Doolittle, another former Idol contestant, tweeted, “I can’t express how sad I am right now. Michael Johns, rest in sweet peace, my friend. You will be missed.”

The winner of American Idol’s Season 7, David Cook, said, “Mike was one of the first people I bonded with when I got to Hollywood week, and I can honestly say that the depth and pressure associated with the first few weeks of the Idol experience would’ve eaten me alive, had it not been for Mike. He had a way of making this gigantic, life-altering event seem small and manageable. To say I’m shocked and saddened is a gross understatement. I’m completely gutted for his family, including his wife, Stacey.  I hope they can find at least some small amount of solace in the fact that he made mine and many others’ lives so much better by having known him.” 

Johns was born in Perth, Western Australia, on October 20, 1978, and he died in Tustin, California. After an autopsy was performed, the singer’s remains were cremated and returned to his native Australia.