American Idol contestant Nikki McKibbin passed away at the age of 42.
Nikki was pronounced dead at 3 am following complications from a brain aneurysm. She was on life support before it was decided to harvest her organs, TMZ reported.
It was in 2008 when Nikki’s battle with substance abuse issues was revealed on Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.
The American Idol alum discussed her alcohol and cocaine addictions on the Sober House spin-off.
Justin Guarini, who came second, shared the heartbreaking news of McKibbin’s death on an Instagram post.
He wrote: “@realnikkimckibbin 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.
“Even in our 20’s when we were on American Idol together I could tell that she’d had a challenging life, and that not that many people had been kind to her along the way…but I’ll never forget the day that her idol, Stevie Nicks, sent her flowers with a card that said ‘You are the Gypsy that I was.”
He continued: “Nicki was on cloud nine and the joy and excitement that radiated from her was infectious. After the kind of emotional beating she took at the hands of the masses, she deserved to feel good about herself, even for a little while.
“Rest well, ‘Gypsy’…and thank you for the laughter, merciless teasing, strength, vulnerability, love and friendship you showed me during our time together in the spotlight.”
Jim Verraros, one of the finalists, also wrote: “I can’t believe you’re gone. You were such a light for so many of us. You were unapologetically yourself and I loved that the most about you. You will be missed but I will always hold you close to my heart.
“Rest In Peace, beautiful soul.”
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