Australian-Born 'American Idol' Star Michael Johns Dies Aged 35

Michael Johns, a Perth-born entertainer who rose to prominence in the United States following a stint on American Idol in 2008, has died in Los Angeles, aged 35.

As The Guardian reports, it is understood Johns twisted his ankle last week and consequently consulted a doctor on Thursday complaining of pain, swelling and bruising that began to stretch from his ankle up his leg.

He was cleared to go home, but was found dead on a friend's couch the next afternoon, apparently from a blood clot.

Johns arrived in the US in 1997 on a tertiary tennis scholarship, but gained fame in his adopted country in 2008 when he appeared on American Idol — on which he placed eighth — before going on to score films and documentaries as well as acting as a composer for other artists.

His time on the show was not entirely controversy-free — it was uncovered during the season that six years prior he had been signed to Madonna's label Maverick, which some saw as a direct contravention of Idol's mission to uncover undiscovered talent. Nonetheless, Johns proved to be a popular fixture of the show for his tenure.

Iconic Idol judge Simon Cowell expressed his condolences via Twitter.

He is survived by his wife, LA interior designer Stacey Vuduris.

"Our family is devastated by the passing of our beloved Michael, a wonderful husband, son, brother, uncle and friend," Johns' family said in a statement released at the weekend.

"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."