American Idol host Ryan Seacrest took some time away from the show’s auditions for Season 14 in Nashville Monday to share his thoughts on the untimely death of contestant Michael Johns.

“Obviously it’s tragic and shocking news,” Seacrest told Extra. “I couldn’t believe it when I heard it. I think back to when he was on the show and I remember just what a great guy he was, what a kind guy he was, obviously very talented, and somebody that when I think back throughout all the many seasons and all the contestants he stands out to me. I will always remember that about him.”

The singer and songwriter died at the age of 35 Friday, reportedly from a blood clot that stemmed from a twisted ankle.

Confirmation of the news was issued on Johns’ Twitter account:

“It is with a heavy heart and inconsolable sadness that we confirm the passing of our friend Michael Johns. No other details will b avail at this time. Please respect the privacy of Mike’s family and friends as we know u will. Members and admin of @mjohnsonline pass on their prayers.”

#americanidol http://t.co/jtqAfbVNm6 Ryan Seacrest on the Death of 'American Idol' Finalist Michael Johns Ryan … pic.twitter.com/Ue9oGQTZyB

— super celebrity (@Super_celeb_) August 7, 2014

Johns was born in Perth, Australia, in 1978 and moved to the United States in 1997. After his early rock bands Film and The Rising failed, Johns tried out for American Idol in July 2007. He made it into the Top 10 the following year.

American Idol contestant Michael Johns dead at 35 http://t.co/29VY554BGB pic.twitter.com/tauk4zilgO

— CBC News (@CBCNews) August 4, 2014

The good-looking Australian soon garnered a strong posse of fans with his soulful covers of Dolly Parton, Fleetwood Mac and the Beatles.

It came as a shock to his ardent fan-base when he was eliminated in eighth place during Season Seven, and the subsequent outcry led the show to instigate the “Judges’ Save” a season later.

Image via Wikimedia Commons