A former contestant from the popular singing competition American Idol has passed away at the age of 32.
His family has confirmed the heartbreaking news to TMZ.
The singer gained national attention after auditioning for the show in 2020, during its 18th season.
Performing Bless the Broken Road by Rascal Flatts, his heartfelt rendition moved judge Katy Perry to tears and earned him a standing ovation from the panel.
Although his journey on the show ended during Hollywood Week, his performance left a lasting impression on audiences.
Following his time on American Idol, he continued to pursue music while balancing personal commitments. His unexpected passing has left his loved ones and fans in mourning.
His sister, Angela Evans, shared the tragic news on Facebook, stating: “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! You’re singing with the Angels now Bubba. Please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time.”
She later expressed that his death was ‘completely unexpected’ and that the family was ‘completely unprepared.’
The family is now working to bring him home and manage funeral expenses.
To assist with these costs, they have launched a GoFundMe campaign, asking for support from those who wish to help during this difficult time.
His brother, William Kiker, also paid tribute, writing: “Dear brother, I just want you to know that no matter where you are you will always be my baby brother.
“I know you are finally at peace, I just wish I had more time with you, so until I can see you again, say hey to bubba for me and tell him I love him. Rest in peace.”
A statement on the GoFundMe page described him as a ‘beloved son, brother, father, and friend’ and highlighted the financial challenges the family now faces.
It read: “We are now left with the difficult task of bringing him home and covering funeral expenses. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly to the funeral costs and allow us to navigate this difficult time without the added financial burden.”
His ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook, also spoke about the loss, telling TMZ: “She hates that her kids lost their father.”
Kiker is survived by two daughters, and his cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed.
You can donate here.
Want more stuff like this?
Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
- Career: You have the opportunity to showcase your leadership and creativity. Take advantage of this chance to move forward in your work.
- Love: Sincerity and openness help strengthen your relationships.
- Health: Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise to stay energized.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
- Career: You may face some challenges today. Stay patient and handle them calmly.
- Love: Spend time with family and friends to strengthen your bonds.
- Health: Pay attention to sleep and rest well to maintain a relaxed mind.
Gemini (May 21 – June 21)
- Career: Your communication skills will bring you success at work.
- Love: Listen and share more with your loved ones to improve understanding.
- Health: Engage in light physical activities to boost your well-being.
Cancer (June 22 – July 22)
- Career: You may receive an opportunity for promotion. Seize it and prove your abilities.
- Love: Your care and attention make your relationships warmer.
- Health: Take time to relax and reduce stress to maintain good mental health.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
- Career: Confidence and decisiveness help you handle work effectively.
- Love: Express your feelings sincerely to strengthen your relationships.
- Health: Pay attention to your diet and workout routine to stay fit.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
- Career: Your meticulousness and attention to detail are appreciated at work.
- Love: Open up and share more to understand each other better.
- Health: Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid unnecessary stress.
Libra (September 23 – October 23)
- Career: Your ability to balance and mediate helps you resolve conflicts at work.
- Love: Spend quality time with loved ones to deepen your relationships.
- Health: Engage in recreational activities to relieve stress and relax.
Scorpio (October 24 – November 21)
- Career: Your determination and persistence help you overcome work challenges.
- Love: Share your emotions and listen to others for better understanding.
- Health: Take care of your mental health and find ways to relax.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
- Career: Your optimism and energy help you achieve your goals.
- Love: Spend time with loved ones and share joyful moments together.
- Health: Participate in outdoor activities to improve your well-being.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
- Career: Your hard work and responsibility are recognized at work.
- Love: Show your affection sincerely to strengthen your relationship.
- Health: Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
- Career: Your creativity and uniqueness bring new ideas to work.
- Love: Listen and share your thoughts to deepen emotional connections.
- Health: Ensure you get enough rest and sleep to stay refreshed.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
- Career: Your intuition helps you make the right decisions at work.
- Love: Your sensitivity and care make relationships more affectionate.
- Health: Take time to relax and maintain inner peace.