'American Idol' Alum Michael Johns Dies Suddenly At 35

Former American Idol contestant Michael Johns died unexpectedly on Friday. He was 35.

Singer Michael Johns Dies

Johns’ death was apparently caused by a blood clot in his ankle, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Johns competed in American Idol’s seventh season in 2008. The judges gave him a ticket to Hollywood after hearing him sing Otis Redding’s “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long.” Johns continued to pass through the rounds and made it to the singing competition’s live shows. He ended up finishing in eighth place. David Cook was the season’s winner.

American Idol and former Idol judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson have reacted to the news of Johns’ death on social media.

“Michael Johns was an incredible talent and we are deeply saddened by the news of his passing,” read a statement on American Idol’s official Facebook page. “He was a 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.”

Following his turn on American Idol, Johns released a full-length album in 2009, Hold Back My Heart. He came out with the EP Love and Sex in 2012.