Former “American Idol” contestant Doug Kiker, who famously wowed judge Katy Perry to the point of tears during his audition in 2020, has died at age 32.
Kiker’s sisters announced his death on social media, but did not provide a cause. His mother and brother also confirmed his death to TMZ, which first reported the news.
“It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker,” his sister Angela Evans wrote on Facebook. “He was sooo loved and will be missed by so many! You’re singing with the Angels now, Bubba. Please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time.”
Another sister, Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez, also informed the world her beloved brother was gone.
“Today I got the call that no one wants to get,” she wrote. “We lost an amazing person today.”
She told her brother he would “forever be missed” and that he should “say hey to grandma.”
Known as “The Singing Garbage Man,” the Alabama sanitation worker performed a powerful rendition of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road” on the season 18 premiere of “American Idol,” which brought tears to Perry’s eyes and snagged him a spot in the Hollywood round.
He was eliminated the following week.
Kiker leaves behind two children, who he shared with his ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Kiker’s family to help cover funeral expenses.