Dag Kiker, a participant of American Idol who brought tears to Katy Perry, has passed away
14 march 2025 в 23:13
Former American Idol contestant Doug Kiker has passed away. He made an impression on former Idol judge Katy Perry when he moved her to tears by performing the song «Bless the Broken Road» by Rascal Flatts during his audition in the 18th season. As more information about Kiker’s cause of death emerges, several sources have reported that the singer’s death is still under investigation.
Below, you will learn more about Kiker, his life, and his participation in American Idol.
Most known for his audition with «Bless the Broken Road» on American Idol, Kiker won the hearts of viewers and Perry, who dubbed him the «Singing Garbageman». Kiker worked as a garbage man in Mobile, Alabama. After his emotional audition, Perry told him, «That wasn’t garbage. That was great».
Kiker then received a golden ticket to Hollywood but was eliminated from the competition after a week. Nevertheless, Kiker continued to sing and share videos on his Instagram account, showcasing his strong vocals.
In one of Kiker’s last Instagram posts in 2022, he thanked his followers for their support.
«To everyone who has shown their love and support!!! I appreciate you!!!», - he wrote at the time. «I may be down but never count me out. I refuse to give up to all who root for dreamers of the world, as long as I have breath in me, I will live and strive to be the best version of myself and show that I’m not just talking, I’m working very hard mentally and physically, let me know what you think, also before I forget, if you haven’t hit the subscribe button or visited and subscribed to my YouTube channel, don’t forget to continue showing your support by doing so, thank you again».
Although the official cause of death has not been determined, TMZ reported that the 911 caller claimed Kiker overdosed on drugs, leading to a heart attack. Kiker’s family has not confirmed this report.
According to TMZ, one person spotted Kiker on the street and called 911 in early March 2025, claiming he may be «experiencing a drug overdose». Paramedics took Kiker to the hospital, and he passed away five days later, the publication reports.
The publication noted that the medical examiner has not yet announced Kiker’s cause of death.
Kiker was only 32 years old, according to multiple sources. His family announced his death in various Facebook posts. Kiker’s sister Angela Evans wrote in her March 2025 post: «With a heavy heart, we are forced to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker, he was so loved and will be missed by many! Now you sing with the angels, Bubba, please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time».
Kiker’s family also created a GoFundMe page to cover funeral expenses.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1−800−662-HELP (4357)
Below, you will learn more about Kiker, his life, and his participation in American Idol.
Most known for his audition with «Bless the Broken Road» on American Idol, Kiker won the hearts of viewers and Perry, who dubbed him the «Singing Garbageman». Kiker worked as a garbage man in Mobile, Alabama. After his emotional audition, Perry told him, «That wasn’t garbage. That was great».
Kiker then received a golden ticket to Hollywood but was eliminated from the competition after a week. Nevertheless, Kiker continued to sing and share videos on his Instagram account, showcasing his strong vocals.
In one of Kiker’s last Instagram posts in 2022, he thanked his followers for their support.
«To everyone who has shown their love and support!!! I appreciate you!!!», - he wrote at the time. «I may be down but never count me out. I refuse to give up to all who root for dreamers of the world, as long as I have breath in me, I will live and strive to be the best version of myself and show that I’m not just talking, I’m working very hard mentally and physically, let me know what you think, also before I forget, if you haven’t hit the subscribe button or visited and subscribed to my YouTube channel, don’t forget to continue showing your support by doing so, thank you again».
Although the official cause of death has not been determined, TMZ reported that the 911 caller claimed Kiker overdosed on drugs, leading to a heart attack. Kiker’s family has not confirmed this report.
According to TMZ, one person spotted Kiker on the street and called 911 in early March 2025, claiming he may be «experiencing a drug overdose». Paramedics took Kiker to the hospital, and he passed away five days later, the publication reports.
The publication noted that the medical examiner has not yet announced Kiker’s cause of death.
Kiker was only 32 years old, according to multiple sources. His family announced his death in various Facebook posts. Kiker’s sister Angela Evans wrote in her March 2025 post: «With a heavy heart, we are forced to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker, he was so loved and will be missed by many! Now you sing with the angels, Bubba, please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time».
Kiker’s family also created a GoFundMe page to cover funeral expenses.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1−800−662-HELP (4357)
© Zhinobaeva Margarita
