‘American Idol’ Alum Doug Kiker, Known as ‘The Singing Garbage Man,’ Dies at 32

Doug Kiker, a former American Idol contestant affectionately dubbed “The Singing Garbage Man,” has passed away at the age of 32.

His death, confirmed on Monday, March 11, 2025, was acknowledged by multiple family members, including his brother, William Kiker, and his mother, Joyce Kiker.

According to TMZ, Doug’s ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook, also confirmed the heartbreaking news. She expressed her sorrow over their children growing up without their father, though the exact cause of his passing has not been disclosed.

Doug’s older brother, William, shared his grief in a touching Facebook tribute, honoring their bond and Doug’s memory. Accompanying his message was a heartfelt photo of the two standing together, exuding warmth and camaraderie. In the image, Doug sports a backward cap and a black T-shirt reading “MAKE AMERICA GROOVY AGAIN,” smiling warmly as a young child, likely a family member, stands between them.

In addition to the outpouring of grief from his loved ones, a GoFundMe page has been created to assist the family during this difficult time.

In his heartfelt tribute, William expressed the profound sorrow of losing his little brother far too soon. He reflected on the finality of Doug’s passing, acknowledging that while his brother may now be at peace, the weight of his absence remains heavy for those left behind. His words carried a deep sense of longing as he wished for more time with Doug.

In a particularly poignant moment, he addressed his late brother directly, writing, “Know [sic] matter where you are, you will always be my baby brother.”

His post captured the raw grief of a family grappling with an unexpected loss while serving as a testament to a love that endures beyond death. Friends and followers flooded the comment section with condolences and support, deeply moved by his tribute.

Like William, Doug’s sister, Angela Evans, also shared an emotional tribute on social media, created in collaboration with their mother, Joyce, and a close family friend, Tina Tucker.

In her heartfelt post, Angela expressed the immense grief of losing her brother, describing how deeply loved he was and how much he will be missed. She asked for prayers and support as their family navigates this devastating time, while finding comfort in the belief that Doug is now singing among the angels.

Accompanying her message were two poignant images that captured different moments in Doug’s life. The first photo shows Doug posing for a portrait. He was dressed in a red plaid shirt and gazed into the camera with a soft yet confident expression.

The second image displayed him with a warm smile. He wore a backward cap while standing in what appeared to be a music venue or stage setting.

The contrast between the two images highlighted not just the passage of time but also the journey Doug had taken entering the music scene.

Angela’s tribute, like those of other grieving family members, resonated with friends and supporters, many of whom shared their condolences. As messages of love and support poured in, it became clear just how many lives he had touched, both through his music and his unwavering spirit.

Beyond her online tribute, Angela also made a heartfelt public plea for assistance. She admitted that the family was completely unprepared for Doug’s sudden passing and needed help to bring him home from Denver, Colorado, and arrange a memorial service that would honor his life.

“Anything is greatly appreciated. Thank you for all the calls and messages—sorry to anyone we haven’t gotten back to yet. Please bear with us and charge it to our minds, not our hearts [sic],” she wrote in her emotional message.

Angela also expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support, emphasizing just how much their family has endured in recent years.

“Douglas Kiker, you will live forever in our hearts 💕 I miss you soooo [sic],” Angela concluded in her message. Beneath her tribute, she shared a link to a GoFundMe campaign created in Doug’s honor, aiming to raise funds for his final farewell.

The fundraiser was organized by a loved one, Donna Carrillos, on behalf of Doug’s family.

In the campaign’s heartfelt description, Donna remembered Doug as one of the most sincere and hilarious people she had ever known—a beloved son, brother, father, and friend whose absence leaves an irreplaceable void. She explained that the family is now faced with the difficult task of bringing Doug home and covering funeral expenses.

“Any contribution […] 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 every one of y’all [sic],” the plea reads.

The fundraiser also includes touching photos of Doug, capturing cherished moments from his life and celebrating the joy he brought to those around him.

The overwhelming support from the community has been evident, as donations have poured in. Currently, of the $4,500 goal, the GoFundMe has already reached 81% of its target, with contributions totaling $3,663 from 65 donors.

Doug’s journey from a small-town garbage collector to a contender on “American Idol” was one of the most memorable moments of Season 18, leaving an emotional impact on both the judges and the audience.

During his 2020 audition, Doug walked into the “American Idol” studio with no formal singing experience but an undeniable passion for music. His down-to-earth personality immediately won over the judges, as he humbly complimented them, prompting a few lighthearted exchanges.

When asked about his background, he admitted he had never performed publicly before and wasn’t even sure how to warm up.

Recognizing his raw potential, Lionel Richie stepped in with words of encouragement and sent him outside to practice.

Host Ryan Seacrest personally guided the humble late singer through an impromptu rehearsal in front of strangers.

When Doug returned to the audition room, the judges were eager to see what he had to offer. He dedicated his performance to his then-two-year-old daughter, explaining that he wanted to prove to her that anything is possible.

With Luke Bryan stepping in to assist and accompany him on piano, Doug launched into a heartfelt rendition of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road,” his deep and soulful voice instantly filling the room.

By the time he finished, the judges, who gave him a standing ovation, were visibly moved, with Katy Perry turning away as she cried.

The emotional moment continued as Lionel handed Doug his golden ticket to Hollywood, marking a life-changing experience. All the judges proceeded to warmly embrace Doug with Katy, overwhelmed with emotion, reassuring him that simply being himself would take him far.

It was a defining moment that resonated with viewers, as Doug’s sincerity and passion shone through in a way that words alone couldn’t capture.

Although his “American Idol” journey was cut short in the following round after his performance of Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Doug’s audition became a viral sensation, touching millions with its authenticity.

His story stood as a testament to the idea that talent and determination could come from anywhere, and his audition remains one of the most unforgettable in the show’s history.

At this time, we wish to extend our most sincere condolences to Joyce, William, Angela, Valerie, Doug’s children, other family members, friends, and all his loved ones as they mourn such a significant loss. We hope for their healing amid their time of grief. RIP, dear Doug.