Doug Kiker, known for his role as “The Singing Garbage Man” on Season 18 of “American Idol,” has passed away at age 32. His former fiancée Valerie Cook and family confirmed his death on Monday, March 10, 2025, in Denver, Colorado.
Kiker, whose emotional audition moved judge Katy Perry to tears, has left fans and family mourning his loss. His sister, Angela Evans, announced the news on social media, stating the family was “completely unprepared” for his sudden passing. She mentioned they would need help to bring him back home from Denver, Colorado, and to arrange an appropriate memorial.
Emergency responders were alerted when a passerby noticed Kiker distressed on the street and suspected a drug overdose. He was taken to a hospital but died five days later. While the cause of death is yet to be confirmed by officials, sources suggest drugs may have caused a heart attack.
Kiker, originally from Alabama, first gained national recognition in 2020 during his “American Idol” audition, where he performed Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road.” His lack of formal performance experience did not hinder his ability to captivate the judges and the audience, leading to his audition video accumulating over 200 million views on YouTube.
During the show, Kiker expressed, “I just don’t want to let my family down… I’ve been a good man my whole life.” He reached Hollywood Week but was eliminated after singing Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” missing the Top 20.
Kiker’s brother, William, also shared his sorrow online, writing, “Dear brother I just want you to know that no matter where you are you will always be my baby brother. I just wish I had more time with you so until I can see you again say hey to Bubba for me and tell him I love him rest in peace Douglas Kiker my baby brother.”
After his time on the show, Kiker pursued a music career, with fans funding his debut album. However, he encountered personal challenges. In May 2021, about a year after appearing on “American Idol,” Kiker was arrested in Alabama on domestic violence charges. Jail records indicate he was charged with third-degree domestic violence and harassment. His bond was set at $1,000.
Kiker is survived by two daughters with his ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook. Cook told TMZ that she “hates” that their daughters have lost their father.
A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to help the family with funeral expenses, with a target of $4,500. The page displays various photos of Kiker throughout his life.
Despite his brief appearance on “American Idol,” Kiker left a significant impact on both judges and viewers. Judge Lionel Richie praised him during his audition, stating, “You’re a hell of a man.” Although he did not advance further in the competition, Kiker was invited back to perform with Rascal Flatts during the Season 18 finale.
In one of Kiker’s final social media posts, he showed his commitment to pursuing his dreams and expressed gratitude to those who supported him. His sister, Donna Kiker Carillos-Ramirez, remembered him for his “biggest smile” and ability to “make you laugh.”
The GoFundMe campaign notes that all donations will be used solely to cover funeral expenses and to assist the family in coping with this difficult time without additional financial stress.
