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TEXAS: American singer-songwriter Nikki McKibbin, best known for her third-place finish on the inaugural season of American Idol, passed away at the age of 42 after suffering from aneurysm.
McKibbin’s death was confirmed by her husband, Craig Sadler, who said on Facebook that she was taken off life support early Sunday morning, four days after she experienced complications from a brain aneurysm.
“She would already be gone, but she’s an organ donor and has been kept on life support to make that possible. That shouldn’t be a surprise to us. Even in the end, she is still giving,” he went on to say.
He further wrote, “She was so loved that I know thousands of you will be grieving with us. The current COVID-19 situation won’t allow the huge service that she deserves, but I would like to offer you the opportunity to honor her.”
McKibbin was part of American Idol’s first season as one of the top three finalists back in 2002 alongside Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini.
Appearing with an unabashedly punk style, she was praised for her soulful covers, including “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler, “Black Velvet” by Alannah Myles and “Piece of My Heart.”
A spokeswoman for American Idol, in a statement, said, “Nikki McKibbin was an incredible talent and we are deeply saddened by the news of her passing. She was part of our ‘American Idol’ family and will be truly missed.”
