Doug Kiker, the beloved contestant known as the 3Singing Garbage Man3 from American Idol, tragically died on March 10, 2025, at the young age of 32. The Alabama native captured hearts during his audition by performing Rascal Flatts3 3Bless the Broken Road3, which famously brought judge Katy Perry to tears.
The circumstances surrounding Kiker3s death are still unclear. He was spotted on the streets of Denver, Colorado, where a concerned passerby called 911, fearing he may have been experiencing a drug overdose. Emergency medical services rushed Kiker to Denver Health Medical Center, where he remained hospitalized for five days before his passing.
Sources close to the situation indicated to TMZ Kiker may have suffered from complications related to drug use, possibly indicating the presence of drug-induced heart issues, but the Denver Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed the official cause of death is still pending. Kiker's family, including his sister Angela Evans, shared the heartbreaking news via Facebook on March 12. "It is with a heavy heart we have to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker. He was sooo loved and will be missed by so many! Your singing with the Angels now Bubba, please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time," she wrote.
Kiker was not only known for his memorable audition but also as a loving father to two children. His ex-fiancee, Valerie Cook, expressed her grief over the passing of the father of her children, stating how much she hated this outcome. Evans took to social media again to launch a GoFundMe campaign to assist with the sudden costs related to Kiker's transportation and memorial services. The GoFundMe, which aims to gather funds to help bring Kiker back to his roots for burial, had accumulated over $5,000 shortly after its launch and expressed heartfelt gratitude to contributors. "This was completely unexpected, and we are going to need a little help getting him home from Denver, Colorado, and being able to give him the memorial he deserves," wrote Evans. "Anything is greatly appreciated."
Doug Kiker gained fame during the 18th season of American Idol, which aired in 2020. His audition record was remarkable as it marked the first time he had ever performed before any audience, yet he delivered such talent and emotion on stage. The judges, including Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Katy Perry, praised him wholeheartedly. After his impressive audition, Kiker advanced and later returned to perform with Rascal Flatts during the Season 18 finale, showcasing how far he had come.
Still, underlying challenges seemed to haunt Kiker even after his rise to relative fame. According to various reports, his social media presence faded, indicating potential inner struggles. A post from May 2022 reflected on his battles with life, with Kiker stating, "We all have our moments of true struggle.” While he faced many trials, his incredible talent and cheerful spirit endeared him to fans and the community alike.
Angela Evans and another sibling, Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez, paid tribute to their brother with heartfelt sentiments on social media. Carrillos-Ramirez shared, "Today I got the call no one wants to get. We lost an amazing person today. He had the biggest smile and knew how to make you laugh. I know I didn3t raise him but I never stopped loving him.” She expressed gratitude to the parents who raised Doug and let the world know he would be sorely missed.
Doug Kiker leaves behind significant memories as he touched many lives, both through his soulful music and his passion for life. His family hopes to memorialize him fittingly with the help of friends and support from the community. Contributions to the GoFundMe campaign are intended not only for memorial expenses but also to assist the family during this arduous time. Supporters are coming together to celebrate the life of this extraordinary man, who broke barriers on stage and brought joy to many.
Following his passing, American Idol honored Kiker during its March 16 episode, displaying his image with the words, "in memory of Douglas Kiker" at the conclusion of the show. This tribute reflects the impact he had on viewers and is just one more reminder of the legacy he leaves behind.
Doug Kiker's life story, from the humble beginnings as a sanitation worker to shining on the national stage, resonates deeply. He’ll be remembered for his infectious smile, incredible talent, and the music he has left behind—a tribute to all those who struggle yet rise
against the odds.