Popular singing competition American Idol honored the late Doug Kiker with a tribute on the weekend show after his unexpected death last week.
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Per a report by Country Rebel, American Idol paid tribute to Kiker at the end of the episode on Sunday night. The show displayed a picture from his audition in Season 18 with the message "In Memory Of Douglas Kiker." It's unknown if American Idol will air any tributes during the live shows as they are currently showing pre-recorded auditions.
Kiker was dubbed the "Singing Garbage Man" after his performances in 2020. He had no professional singing experience before entering the competition. During his audition, Kiker told judges that the only time he had ever 'performed' was on his garbage truck. He was clearly shaky and nervous, and Lionel even told him to leave the room for a warm-up. Kiker responded, "I wouldn't know how."
When he returned to the stage, Kiker explained that he entered the show for his 2-year-old daughter. He wowed the judges with a powerful rendition of "Bless the Broken Road," reducing the judges to tears. Katy Perry, who was a judge at the time, said, "That was not garbage. It was greatness."
Authorities Are Still Investigating Doug Kiker's Death
Doug's sisters confirmed that Kiker passed away last week. Per a report by TMZ, a passerby walked past him on the sidewalk and thought he looked so unwell that they called Emergency Services. Law enforcement told the outlet that the caller had 'taken one look' at Kiker before dialing 911. They reportedly said he looked like he was experiencing a drug overdose.
Authorities have not announced an official cause of death, although TMZ alleges that their sources say Kiker had a heart attack owing to drug use. He was hospitalized for five days prior to his death. His family has set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral costs and to give him a 'proper farewell.'
"It is with heavy hearts that we have to say goodbye to one of the most sincere souls and most hilarious person of all. Douglas, a beloved son, brother, father and friend," the campaign reads. The post explains that all funds will go toward funeral costs, allowing the family to recover without the financial burden.
