American Idol finalist Michael Johns passes away at age 35

Michael Johns, a contestant who made it to the finals rounds on American Idol's seventh season, passed away has passed at the age of 35.

The Hollywood Reporter reports that the cause was believed to be a blood clot in the singer's ankle when he died on Friday (1 August, 2014) .

A statement on American Idol's official Facebook page read: "Michael Johns was an incredible talent and we are deeply saddened by the news of his passing. He was part of our American Idol family and he will be truly missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time."

Johns was born in Perth, Australia but moved to the United States on a tennis schoalrship but quickly became involved in Atlanta's music scene. Following his success on the popular competition reality show, he released a full-length album in 2009 'Hold Back My Heart' and in 2012 he released an EP, titled 'Love and Sex'.

The singer auditioned on American Idol with a powerful cover of Otis Redding's 'I've Been Loving You Too Long' and performed Aerosmith's 'Dream On' as his last song on the show.

Former producer and judge on American Idolo, Simon Cowell, tweeted on Saturday evening about the passing, saying: "I just heard the very sad news that Michael Johns has passed away. A truly great guy. Rest in peace Michael."