The former contestant, who worked as a garbage collector, wowed judge Perry with his rendition of Rascal Flatts' "God Bless This Broken Road"

Doug Kiker of 'American Idol' fame is dead. The 'Singing Garbage Man' made it to Hollywood, was eliminated early, then came back to sing with Rascal Flatts.

Doug Kiker, known for his appearance on American Idol Season 18, passed away at 32 after being rushed to the hospital. Kiker, who earned national recognition as “The Singing Garbage Man,” was found in a concerning state by a passerby in Denver.

During season 18 of “American Idol,” Doug Kiker became a fan favorite when he drove then-judge Katy Perry to tears with his audition. While standing in front of Perry, and fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie,

American Idol” alum Doug Kiker has died at the age of 32. Kiker’s sister, Angela Evans, shared the sad news on social media, writing that his death was “completely unexpected.” She shared that his loved ones need assistance to transport him to Denver and to give him a memorial.

Douglas Kiker, a former contestant on “American Idol” who was known as the “Singing Garbage Man,” has died at the age of 32, reports say. Kiker’s sister confirmed her brother’s death in a post on social media.