Lil Chris- real name Chris Hardman- has reportedly passed away at the age of 24.

News came after friends posted messages of condolence on his Facebook wall.

His mother also allegedly shared several pictures of her son.

"I can not believe I'm doing this and I'm completely devastated.

"Rest in peace brother bear. Love you mate. Chris Hardman Aka Lil' Chris."

Dougie Poynter and Harry Judd from McFly also posted sad messages for the young star.

Fans took to Twitter to share their sadness over the news.

One follower wrote: “So sad to hear about lil' chris. Loved him. Checkin' it out will always be the best tune. #RIPChris.”

Another wrote: “Lil Chris was such a blast from the past. RIP man. x.”

He last tweeted on March 18th, writing: "Good morning everybody! Lovely day! Love you all x."

Worryingly he wrote in March 3rd: "Thinking about quitting music forever...there has to come a time eventually when I have to face reality. I'm just not good enough."

Chris shot to fame after starring in Channel 4’s Rock School alongside KISS frontman Gene Simmons. He later released hit single ‘Checkin’ It Out’.

The cause of death is not yet known.