Doug Kiker, who captured hearts as “The Singing Garbage Man” during his appearance on Season 18 of “American Idol,” has died at the age of 32. His ex-fiancée Valerie Cook and family members confirmed his death occurred on Monday, March 10, 2025, in Denver, Colorado.
Known for his emotional audition that moved judge Katy Perry to tears, Kiker’s unexpected passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from family and fans. His sister Angela Evans took to social media to share the devastating news, revealing the family was “completely unprepared” for his sudden death. She explained that they would need some assistance to bring him home from Denver, Colorado, and to provide the kind of memorial he, like anyone, truly deserves.
Emergency services were called after a concerned pedestrian spotted Kiker on the street appearing to be in distress. The passerby, worried Kiker might be experiencing a drug overdose, contacted 911. Kiker was rushed to a hospital but died five days later. While officials have not confirmed the cause of death, sources close to the situation say that drugs may have led to Kiker suffering a heart attack.
The Alabama native first gained national attention in 2020 during his “American Idol” audition, where he performed Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road.” His raw talent and authentic personality won over the judges and viewers alike. Despite having no prior performance experience, Kiker’s audition video went viral, garnering over 200 million views on YouTube.
“I just don’t want to let my family down… I’ve been a good man my whole life,” Kiker had stated during his time on the competition show. Though he advanced to Hollywood Week, he was eliminated after performing Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” unable to make it to the Top 20.
Kiker’s brother William also shared his grief 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.”
Following his elimination from the show, Kiker had continued to pursue his music career, with fans helping him crowdfund his debut album. However, in his personal life, he faced challenges. In May 2021, approximately a year after his “American Idol” appearance, Kiker was arrested in Alabama on domestic violence charges. According to jail records, he was charged with domestic violence in the third degree, harassment, after police responded to a 911 call from an adult woman. He was held on a $1,000 bond at the time.
Kiker leaves behind two young daughters whom he shared with his ex-fiancée Valerie Cook. Cook expressed her heartbreak to TMZ, saying she “hates” that their daughters have lost their father.
A GoFundMe campaign was launched on Wednesday to assist the family with funeral expenses. The page, which features photos of Kiker throughout his life, has a goal of $4,500.
Despite his brief time in the spotlight, Kiker made a lasting impression on both the judges and viewers of “American Idol.” Judge Lionel Richie praised Kiker during his audition, telling him, “You’re a hell of a man.” Though he didn’t advance far in the competition, producers invited Kiker back for the Season 18 finale, where he performed virtually with Rascal Flatts.
In one of his final social media posts, Kiker expressed his determination to continue following his dreams, thanking those who had supported him along the way. His sister Donna Kiker Carillos-Ramirez remembered him as having “the biggest smile” and knowing “how to make you laugh.”
The GoFundMe campaign indicates that all donations will be used exclusively for covering funeral expenses and helping the family manage this challenging time without the additional strain of financial hardship.
