American Idol star's cause of death at 32 as family 'completely unprepared' (2025)

American Idol star Doug Kilner was 32 years old when he died. His family announced the news in March and said they were 'completely unprepared'

American Idol star Doug Kiker died aged 32 in March, with his family creating a donations page to help bring his body back home. A month later, it has been confirmed that the singer died from an opioid overdose.

The talented singer, who was a garbage man by trade and appeared on the 18th series of the singing competition, was a huge hit among fans for his back story and incredible voice. His sister Angela Evans posted at the time that the family were "completely unprepared" for his shock death and asked for help in bringing his body home from Colorado.

Kiker died from an opioid overdose, according to the City and County of Denver Medical Examiner's report, as reported in TMZ.

His tragic death has been ruled as accidental and caused by toxic interaction of fentanyl, methadone, and amphetamines as well as recent cocaine use.

Taking to social media to announce the news on March 12, his sister said the family wanted to give him a "memorial that not only he, but anyone deserves," and added on social media: "You will live forever in our hearts. I miss you so."

On Facebook, Angela shared: "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."

His other sister, Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez, shared her own statement: "Today I got the call that no one wants to get. We lost an amazing person today."

She added: "He had the biggest smile and knew how to make you laugh. I know I didn’t raise him but I never stopped loving him. My parents did an amazing job with him. Douglas Kiker you will forever be missed. Fly high. Say hey to grandma."

Kiker's ex-fiancée Valerie Cook also spoke out following the tragic news, telling TMZ that she "hates that her kids lost their father."

The family created a GoFundMe for him, explaining to people they needed to raise $4,500 for his burial.

"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," Donna wrote.

"We are now left with the difficult task of bringing him home and covering funeral expenses. We are reaching out for help to honor Douglas’s memory and give him a proper farewell. 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.

"Thank you for your love, support, and generosity during this incredibly difficult time. We greatly appreciate each and everyone of yall."

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.