Lil Chris
Rock School singer Lil' Chris, here at Nokia Skate Almighty in August 2009, has died at the age of 24 Jon Furniss/Getty

TV personality and pop star Lil' Chris has died at the age of 24. The reality star, who shot to fame in 2006 when he was handpicked by Kiss's Gene Simmons to lead a rock band on Channel 4's Rock School, was found at an address in Lowestoft, Suffolk on 23 March.

Although little is known about the events leading to his death, Suffolk police are not treating the death of the singer, real name Chris Hardman, as suspicious.

Aside from his natural talent and ambition, Lil' Chris's charisma and wise cracks made for TV gold during his stint on the reality show. Although he would later venture into music after signing a solo record deal with RCA Records, the gems of wisdom kept on coming.

In tribute to the tragic star, IBTimes UK has put together a few of his most memorable quotes.

On his work ethic

"I have a working class family, so I am not afraid of a bit of hard work."

On depression

"Depression really sucks. Learning how to notice it can save lives and your own feelings at times. Take time to understand it, for everybody."

On fame

"This is cool. I've always wanted to be a rock star; somebody instead of nobody, to show the bullies I'll come out top."

On relationships

"I went to see a gig in Norwich. Loads of girls were going "Chris from Rock School!" and writing their phone numbers on my chest. That's life. Not sure I'd ever want as many women as Gene, though."

On his name

"It's a name that was given to me. It's me and I'm pretty sure it will always be me. Trying to shake off a name that you have been known by for eight years is a pretty tough task. I'm not even going to try."

On having famous friends

"I don't have showbiz friends. I hate celebrity culture. I hate the thought of making friends to further my career, so I don't bother. I'd rather not waste my time. I keep it real to myself and if it means I won't become as successful as other people, let it be."

On girls

LA's bigger and better than Lowestoft - even if it doesn't have a pier. Loads of girls wearing bikinis on the beach too, which was cool. On Lowestoft beach they tend to wear woolly jumpers.

On Gene Simmons

"Gene puts on an act for the show, but he's nice really."

Anyone who has been affected by this story, please contact Mind at Mind.org.uk or 0300 123 3393. You can also contact the Samaritans at Samaritans.org or 08457 90 90 90.