Fred Prouser/REUTERS
American Idol alumni Michael Johns died Friday at the age of 35, reportedly due to a blood clot in his ankle. The Australian singer was a finalist on season seven of the Fox series and finished eighth overall. Johns endured some controversy when it was discovered that he had previously signed with music labels, but he quickly became a fan favorite. Following the show, he released his own album, 2009's Hold Back My Heart. His family released a statement saying it “is devastated by the passing of our beloved Michael, a wonderful husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend.” Former American Idol judge Randy Jackson tweeted “So Sad. Too soon. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.” Johns is the first American Idol finalist to pass away since the show began in 2002.