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‘American Idol’ Contestant Nikki McKibbin Tragically Passed Away — A Look At Her Legacy

American Idol fans that have been following the show since season one definitely remember Nikki McKibbin as the spunky rocker chick. She always knew how to command the room and everyone’s attention. Nikki sadly passed away on November 1 from a brain aneurysm at the age of 42 and the world is heartbroken over her death.

Nikki McKibbin Became A Force To Be Reckoned With On ‘American Idol’

In 2002, Nikki was just 23 years old when she auditioned for American Idol. Her fiery red hair and awesome outfit immediately had the judges complimenting her style. Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson have previously said that they didn’t know what to expect during the first season, but it was definitely contestants like Nikki gave them hope that the show would be a smash success. Simon said that Nikki was memorable and had a “great voice.”

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She made it all the way to the live shows where she continued on to remain true to her rock roots. She took on hits like “Black Velvet” and “Total Eclipse Of The Heart.” Though she landed in the bottom three on six occasions, she was able to battle her way out and it was clear that the fans loved her. Whenever she received a harsh critique from the judges, the audience was always on her side lending their “boo’s” and disagreeing. It was with their support that she made it all the way to the top three next to eventual runner-up Justin Guarini and winner Kelly Clarkson.

After Competing On The Show, Nikki Continued To Pursue Music

After competing on American Idol, Nikki signed with a record label and was eager to come out with her own rock album. Though many tried to steer her in a different direction and create a country album, she was always true to herself and stuck with what she loved. In 2005, she signed with a different record label Astral Records and covered the song “To Be with You” in 2006.

Her debut album “Unleashed” was released in 2007. In 2008, Nikki appeared on  Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew to receive treatment for cocaine and alcohol addiction. She also opened up about her experience with physical and sexual abuse that she experienced as a child. It was a very somber and raw moment for Nikki but she was determined to get help. Dr. Drew encouraged her to get off of her anxiety medications because he felt it was the first step in overcoming her addiction. Her withdrawal was tough, but she was eventually moved into a sober living facility on a spinoff show called Sober House.

In 2014, Nikki returned to American Idol, this time to cheer on her son Tristan Langley during his audition. Jennifer Lopez recognized Nikki as she joined Tristan in the judging room. You might remember when Nikki was a contestant on the show, Tristan infamously ran up to the stage and handed her a rose on live television when he was just a kid. He ended up being cut from the show before the live shows.

In an interview with TooFab that same year, Nikki revealed that she was giving vocal lessons in Texas to prepare kids for opportunities like American Idol. She was also working on getting her band back together.

Nikki McKibbin’s Death Shocked The World

Nikki’s husband Craig Sadler announced Nikki’s death in a Facebook post. She was taken off life support four days after suffering the brain aneurysm. “She was so loved that I know thousands of you will be grieving with us,” he wrote. American Idol also put out a statement after Nikki’s death. “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. Our hearts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this difficult time” the statement reads.

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Her fellow contestant Justin Guarini also gave his condolences saying Nikki was “a fiery, funny lady who could sing the Hell out of a rock song with the same kind of ease and command she lovingly used to cut you with her twangy Southern wit.”

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Our hearts go out to Nikki’s family, friends and fans during this difficult time. She was one of the reasons American Idol is still a huge phenomenon and she will be missed.