American Idol has misplaced one other contestant. Doug Kiker, who was identified “The Singing Garbageman” on the present, had died on the age of 32. TMZ first broke the information on March 13.
In response to his ex-ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook dinner, Kiker died on Monday, March 10. An official explanation for demise was not launched. She informed the outlet that she “hates” that her youngsters’s father died.
Kiker’s sister, Angela Evans, acknowledged his demise, and posted a GoFundMe to assist pay for Kiker’s funeral. “This was utterly surprising we’re utterly unprepared and are gonna want somewhat assist getting him house from Denver, Colorado and having the ability to give the memorial that not solely he however anybody deserves,” she wrote on the fundraiser. The GoFundMe’s objective is $4,500. It has raised $1,000 on the time of publication.
“You’ll reside ceaselessly in our hearts. I miss you so,” she wrote on Fb.
His brother, William, additionally confirmed his demise on Fb, writing a heartfelt message. He mentioned he’ll all the time be his “child bro” and that he’ll miss him dearly.
Kiker carried out Rascal Flatts’ “God Bless the Damaged Street” on Season 18 of Idol. He introduced decide Katy Perry to tears, and made it by means of to the Hollywood spherical, after impressing Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie. Nonetheless, he was eradicated within the following spherical after he sang “Ain’t No Mountain excessive Sufficient” by Marvin Gaye. He labored as a full-time rubbish man then, impressing the judges. He returned for the finale to sing his audition music with Rascal Flatts.
Kiker’s audition racked up greater than 200 million views on YouTube. He made such an impression followers that they helped him crowdfund his debut album.
Kiker was arrested in 2021 for home violence fees in Alabama, in keeping with Deadline.
He leaves behind two daughters. He was not married on the time of his demise.