Doug Kiker, a contestant on the reality TV show “American Idol,” has died due to an opioid overdose. According to the City and County of Denver’s Medical Examiner report, he passed away from the combined effects of fentanyl, methadone, amphetamines, and recent cocaine use. His death was ruled an accident.
Kiker, known as “The Singing Garbage Man,” was 32 when he died last month. He gained fame on the show after performing a rendition of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road” that brought Katy Perry to tears during Season 18.
A pedestrian in Denver had noticed Kiker on the street and thought he might be experiencing a drug overdose, prompting them to call 911. Paramedics responded and rushed him to the hospital, where he died five days later.
Kiker’s family has been seeking help with memorial costs, with his sister launching a GoFundMe campaign to cover expenses. The singer was cut from the show after performing Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
Source: https://www.tmz.com/2025/04/17/doug-kiker-cause-of-death-american-idol