Ariel Burdett, whose X-Factor audition went viral online, has been found dead in her home in Leeds from a wound to the neck, an inquest has found.

The body of the infamous ‘holistic vocal coach’ was discovered on 12th November, after her landlord had tried to make contact with her a week prior.

After persistent failed attempts from the landlord, a hired locksmith gained access to the house, where her body was found lying in blood on the carpet. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

Burdett became a viral sensation in 2008, when her X-factor audition became one of the most timeless, as she entered the room stating “First of all, I am a human being, not a number”.

After a wince-inducing back-and-forth between Burdett and the judges, a one-of-a-kind song written to show off her various (crazy) styles was subsequently grilled by the panel. Burdett refused to take any of their criticisms into hand, remarking to Cheryl Cole that she’s “obviously never been a rock singer”. The audition tape has over three million views on YouTube, and is quoted heavily in British pop culture.

Following her death, an outpouring of tributes have come in across social media, with one tweet stating “A lady who knew exactly what she was… an angel in heaven”. Another person tweeted “Devastated and shocked by the news about the world’s best holistic vocal coach, RIP”.

Whilst she may not be remembered as the greatest singer, her legacy and pop culture status will certainly stand strong. We send our sincerest condolences to Burdett’s friends and family.

Image Credit: ITV