Frazer Harrison/Getty ImagesMichael Johns, a finalist on American Idol's seventh season, died on Friday E! News confirms. The cause of death is suspected to be a blood clot.
"It is with a heavy heart and inconsolable sadness that we confirm the passing of our friend Michael Johns," his manager shared on Twitter. "No other details will b avail at this time. Please respect the privacy of Mike's family and friends as we know u will."
Close friend Torrey Gimbill told E! News that the singer was complaining about pains in his legs days before his death.
"My mom took him into the emergency room [Thursday]," he tells E! News. "He had complained about his leg hurting him, he thought it might be a blood clot because it had bruised pretty badly and he never hurt his leg."
He added, "He was the most talented singer, loyal friend and genuine person you could meet. I miss him so much. It's crazy we were laughing together the day before."
Johns finished eighth when he competed on Fox's singing competition show back in 2008. David Cook and David Archuleta would end up as the show's two finalists.
Several contestants and famous fans expressed their condolences to the singer on social media Saturday afternoon:
Sad news for the idol family?one of our own @Michael_Johns passed away. A consistently kind guy with talent for days. We?ll miss you
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) August 3, 2014I can't express how sad I am right now. Michael Johns, rest in sweet peace, my friend. You will be? http://t.co/PfVhY9hie9
? Melinda Doolittle (@mdoolittle) August 2, 2014@michael_johns you will be missed my friend. RIP
? Taylor Hicks (@taylorhicks) August 2, 2014??R.I.P our beautiful friend @michael_johns You will live in our hearts forever @AmericanIdol
? YOLANDA (@YolandaHFoster) August 2, 2014Oh no. @michael_johns has passed away. Such a wonderful guy and a great voice. Hung with him many times with @officialdfoster. Awful. RIP.
? josh groban (@joshgroban) August 2, 2014Rest in Paradise idol Alum Michael Jons #americanidol #family
? Jacob Lusk (@Jacob_Lusk) August 2, 2014After leaving American Idol, Johns continued to follow his passions by recording his very own album titled Hold Back My Heart. It was released in 2009.
He was also able to duet with fellow Season 7 contestant Brooke White on her album, High Hopes & Heartbreak.
And just last month, the singer shared with his followers on Twitter that he was busy making more great music. "Headed to the studio to work on new song called 'Reckless' been waiting a long time for this one," he shared.
Johns is the first Idol top 10 finalist to pass away in the show's 13-season history. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family.
- Reporting by Marcus Mulick
(Originally published August 2, 2014, at 2:45 p.m. PT)