Nikki McKibbin, ‘American Idol’ Finalist, Dies at 42
Ms. McKibbin, who finished third on the inaugural season of the reality talent show in 2002, died on Sunday after a brain aneurysm, her husband said.
Nikki McKibbin, a singer-songwriter from Texas best known for her third-place finish on the inaugural season of “American Idol,” died on Sunday. She was 42.
Ms. 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. Her son, Tristen Langley, said she died in Arlington, Texas.
“She was so loved that I know thousands of you will be grieving with us,” Mr. Sadler wrote.
Ms. McKibbin rose to national fame in 2002 as a contestant on “American Idol,” the Fox reality show in which singers competed for a record deal. Appearing with an unabashedly punk style, complete with a shock of dyed red hair, 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,” which Janis Joplin made famous with Big Brother and the Holding Company.
She finished third on the show, behind Kelly Clarkson, the winner, and Justin Guarini.
“Nikki McKibbin was an incredible talent and we are deeply saddened by the news of her passing,” a spokeswoman for “American Idol” said in a statement. “She was part of our ‘American Idol’ family and will be truly missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.”
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