Off The Record
American Idol Star Dead At 32. Family issues Heartbreaking Statement
According to TMZ on Thursday, American Idol alum Doug Kiker died on Monday at the age of 32, however the cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
The singer, who was also known as “The Singing Garbage Man,” tried out for Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road” during the competition show’s 18th season.
His brother William and sister Angela, as well as his ex-fiance Valerie Cook, confirmed his unexpected death.
Angela tragically disclosed on social media that Kiker’s death was “unexpected” and that his loved ones were “completely unprepared.”
A GoFundMe page has also been made to help with the “difficult task of bringing him home and covering funeral expenses.”
Doug was also father to two children that he shared with Valerie – and she told TMZ that she ‘hates’ that their daughters have lost their father.
Angela acknowledged her brother’s passing in a heartfelt social media message, writing that she was “reaching out because a lot of people have reached out and asked how they could help…”
“As this was completely unexpected we are completely unprepared and are gonna need a little help getting him home from denver colorado and being able to give the memorial that not only he but anyone deserves.”
She then conveyed her appreciation for the “continued prayers at his very difficult time” and the “calls” and “messages” she had received.
“Lord know we have been threw so much these past few years! Douglas Kiker you will live forever in our hearts. I miss you soooo.”
The music artist’s brother William also shared on Facebook, “Dear brother I just want you to know that know matter where you are you will always be my baby brother.”
He movingly added, “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.”
Since its creation on Wednesday, the GoFundMe campaign, which features old pictures of Kiker, has raised $1,000 toward its $4,500 target.
A message also read: “Help Us Lay Our Loved One to Rest It is with heavy hearts that we have to say goodbye to one of the most sincere souls and most hilarious person of all. Douglas, a beloved son, brother, father and friend.”
“We are now left with the difficult task of bringing him home and covering funeral expenses. We are reaching out for help to honor Douglas’s memory and give him a proper farewell.”
The end of the description included, “Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly to the funeral costs and allow us to navigate this difficult time without the added financial burden.”
“Thank you for your love, support, and generosity during this incredibly difficult time. we greatly appreciate each and everyone of yall.”
When Kiker auditioned in front of the judges for the 18th season of American Idol in 2020, he sang the Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road.”
The judges gave him a standing ovation after his performance, which also famously moved Katy Perry to tears.
However, after performing the incorrect song at first, he sang Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, which prevented him from advancing past Hollywood Week.
“I just don’t want to let my family down… I’ve been a good man my whole life,” he had stated at the time.
Although Doug did not make it to the Top 20, he said about his last performance amid the competition, “I think I did pretty well for it being my first time.”
According to TMZ, Kiker was arrested for domestic abuse in 2021, a year after participating on American Idol.
In Alabama at the time, he had been arrested by the police for his involvement in a domestic abuse case.
Doug sat in jail on a $1,000 bond after being arrested for petty domestic violence.
Officers reacted to claims of domestic abuse between Kiker and an unidentified woman, who called 911, and the singer was placed under arrest.
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