Doug Kiker, a former American Idol contestant, died. He made an impression on former Idol judge Katy Perry when he moved her to tears by singing Rascal Flatts‘ “Bless the Broken Road” during his season 18 audition. As updates regarding Hiker’s cause of death come to light, multiple outlets have reported that the late singer’s death is still under investigation.
Below, learn more about Kiker, his life and his stint on American Idol.
Who Is Doug Kiker?
Best known for his “Bless the Broken Road” American Idol audition, Kiker won audiences’ hearts, and Perry’s, as he was dubbed “The Singing Garbage Man.” Kiker worked as a garbage collector from Mobile, Alabama. Upon finishing his emotional audition, Perry told him, “That was not garbage. It was greatness.”
Kiker was then given a golden ticket to Hollywood but was eliminated from the competition a week later. Nevertheless, Kiker persevered with singing and shared videos to his Instagram account with his strong vocals on full display.
In one of Kiker’s last Instagram posts in 2022, he thanked his followers for their support.
“To all the people that have shown your love and support!!!! I appreciate you!!!!” he wrote at the time. “I may have been down but don’t ever count me out I refuse to give up on all the people rooting for the dreamers of the world as long theres breath in me I’m gonna live and strive everyday to be my best self and show that I’m not just talk Im working very hard both mentally and physically let me know what you think also before I forget if you haven’t clicked the follow button or visited and subscribed to my youtube channel please don’t forget to continue to show your support by doing so thank you once again.”
American Idol contestant Doug Kiker has passed away, and a GoFundMe has been started to help his family: https://t.co/oC8BgHYBRO
“We are reaching out for help to honor Douglas’s memory and give him a proper farewell.”
— GoFundMe (@gofundme) March 14, 2025
Doug Kiker’s Cause of Death
Although an official cause of death has not been determined, TMZ reported that a 911 caller claimed that Kiker overdosed on drugs, which led to a heart attack. Kiker’s family has not confirmed the report.
According to TMZ, an individual noticed Kiker on the street and called 911 in early March 2025, claiming that he may have been “experiencing a drug overdose.” Paramedics then brought Kiker to the hospital, and he died five days later, per the outlet.
The outlet noted that the medical examiner has not announced Kiker’s cause of death.
How Old Was Doug Kiker?
Kiker was just 32 years old, according to several outlets. His family announced his death in various Facebook posts. Kiker’s sister Angela Evans wrote in her March 2025 post, “It is with a heavy heart that 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 Angel’s now Bubba Please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time.”
Kiker’s family also set up a GoFundMe page to cover his funeral expenses.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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