American Idol alum Nikki McKibbin has passed away at the age of 42 from a brain aneurysm. The former contestant rose to fame on season one of the long-running show, alongside Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini.
Nikki McKibbin captured the hearts of viewers during her time on American Idol. The Grand Prairie View, Texas, native wowed the original judges (Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson) with soulful renditions of Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks songs, as well as a memorable cover of the Alannah Myles' song, "Black Velvet." Being a part of the hit show's premiere season made Nikki McKibbon a familiar face to the millions who grew to love American Idol. McKibbin shone alongside Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini and finished third in the competition. Kelly Clarkson went on to win and later became a pop superstar and television host. McKibbin continued her career in music, releasing three albums, Unleashed, American Christmas, and a self-titled album.
McKibbin's husband Craig Sadler confirmed her tragic death in a Facebook post. While he didn't reveal where she died, he did share that his wife passed away after suffering a brain aneurysm on Wednesday, October 28. Nikki was taken off life support early Sunday, November 1. "She would already be gone, but she's an organ donor and has been kept on life support to make that possible," he shared in the post. "That shouldn't be a surprise to us. Even at the end she is still giving," Sadler said. He sent a message to American Idol fans, letting them know how they can celebrate her life despite the current pandemic. "The current Covid situation won't allow the huge service that she deserves, but I would like to offer you the opportunity to honor her," he shared. "You probably know she practically worshiped Stevie Nicks. Before they begin, they will play Landslide for her one last time. If you are able, you can pause at 3:00 wherever you are and listen to it with her." See a post of the couple from 2018 below:
McKibbin's American Idol performance of Stevie Nick's song was one of her magical moments from the show. "She will know that you're sharing her farewell," Sadler added. "She loved so many of you and I know you loved her too." The reality star's son went on to confirm that she passed away in Arlington, Texas. Nikki McKibbin is survived by her husband and son Tristen Cole Langley.
American Idol released a statement to McKibbin's family and friends, which acknowledged that "She was part of our American Idol family and will be truly missed."
Source: Craig Sadler via Facebook. Nikki McKibbin/Instagram
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