Nikki's death
Nikki McKibbin died on Sunday morning after a brain aneurysm: the announce of her husband.
Nikki McKibbin died on Sunday at the age of 42. The singer-songwriter made a name for herself during the first edition of American Idol, earning the third place of the podium. The death occured as a result of a brain aneurysm and she had long been kept alive artificially.
The sad news was confirmed by her husband, Craig Sadler, who wrote a post on Facebook in which he announced that she was taken off life support early Sunday morning, four days after she experienced some complications. “She was so loved that I know thousands of you will be grieving with us,” he wrote.
It was 2002 when Nikki partecipated in the very famous Fox reality show in which singers competed for a record deal. Her covers of the biggest hits of Stevie Nicks, Alanis Morissette, Melissa Etheridge and Janis Joplin were particularly impressed. At the end of the talent, she gained the third place of the podium, behind the winner Kelly Clarkson and the runner-up Justin Guarini.
The American Idol production, upon hearing the sad news, recalled the singer on Twitter with great affection: ““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.”
There are also numerous messages from other protagonists. Ryan Seacrest, for example, the longtime “American Idol” host, wrote on Twitter that Ms. McKibbin “was a superstar the moment she walked into auditions”. And he continued: “She set the bar high with her talent and memorable stage presence. It was an honor to watch her grow and inspire millions of people.” Also Mr. Langley exposed himself regarding the McKibbin’s death, pointing out the fact that she was an extraordinary wife, “the most amazing mother a son could ever ask for, and an angel of a grandmother”.
Nikki’s life wasn’t easy. In 2008 she spoke publicly about her addiction and substance abuse problems. However, she did not let herself down. She embarked on a clinical path to get out of it and start a new life.
After “American Idol,” Ms. McKibbin signed a record deal with RCA Records but clashed with the label when she refused to record a country album, Variety reported. Her debut album, “Unleashed,” was released in 2007 by the Chenoa Music label.
In addition to his post on Facebook, Mr. Sadler said that his wife’s organs were donated. Before the operation began, he said, they played “Landslide,” one of Ms. Nicks’s signature songs with Fleetwood Mac, one last time.