Doug Kiker unexpectedly died on Monday, 13 march 2025

Doug Kiker, the American Idol contestant whose audition went viral and was dubbed “The Singing Garbage Man,” has died. He was 32.

TMZ reported that Kiker died on Monday. The outlet spoke to Kiker’s ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook, who said she “hates that her kids lost their father.” The cause of death is not known at this moment.

Kiker’s brother, William, took to Facebook and mourned the tragic death.

“This was completely unexpected,” William wrote on the social media site. “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 everyone deserves.”

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“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 GoFundMe post reads. “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.”

Kiker appeared in season 18 of the singing competition show. His performance of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road” went viral after he performed in front of judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan.

“I’m a garbage man,” he replied when Richie asked him what he does for a living. “I work on the back of a garbage truck.”

When Richie asked him what kind of performing experience he has, Kiker immediately responded, “I don’t have any. I sing in the back of a garbage truck, that’s it.”

Kiker’s performance brought Perry to tears. Kiker made it to the Hollywood round but was eliminated shortly after. He also performed Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”