American Idol Favorite Reveals A Head-Turning Transformation

American Idol fans love a good come-up story and this season, it's all about Doug Kiker and his new teeth. Doug auditioned in 2019, and made America's hearts melt with his rendition of Rascal Flatts' "Bless the Broken Road." One of the most compelling things about him was the fact that he showed up to try his hardest, even when he knew he was a little rough around the edges. Even with all his charm, Doug didn't seem to know what it meant to warm up, have range, or stay in key. But that hasn't stopped the YouTube video of Doug's audition from garnering more than 9 million views and counting. Judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Ritchie helped him out, prompting fellow judge Katy Perry to applaud the father of two. It wasn't just Doug's vocal flex that had the judges and viewers at home rooting for him. He told the judges that he works as a garbage man and was coming on the show in order to show his two kids, an infant and a 2-year old daughter, that any dream is possible. Since auditioning for American Idol, he's continuing to turn heads with his optimism, and a stunning transformation. In an April 2020 Instagram video Doug posted from his hometown of Mobile, Alabama, the former American Idol contestant gave his followers a positive boost during difficult times. He wrote in the caption of the clip, "I am hearing all of y'all! I know times are tough, especially for the hard workers out there. I understand exactly what it is like right now. I'm gonna keep posting songs to hopefully help y'all through these times. I love you!" It sounds like Doug's providing just the dose of optimism people need these days. It didn't take long for just about everyone who follows American Idol to become a fan of Garbage Man Doug. Radio personality Bobby Bones tweeted about Kiker's video, saying: "I love these catch up moments with some of our favorites. Good to see Doug 'the garbage man' Kiker is doing well!" Another fan tweeted: "So proud of you #DougKiker you have the heart & potential to go as far as you desire...Your new smile just made your outside catch up to your beautiful inside." Still another fan added, "#DougKiker is so inspirational. I wish that man all the best in life for him and his family." Doug was eliminated during the Hollywood week episode of American Idol, but on April 12, 2020, the show returned with an update on some of the eliminated contestants. Audiences were thrilled to see the singer's transformation. Part of Kiker's charm during his stint on American Idol was his distinct smile, which included some missing teeth. The singer initially seemed a little shy, but in a video message to fans during the American Idol follow-up segment, Doug was sporting a full set of chompers and looking as happy and confident as ever. Armed with a new set of teeth, Doug felt more confident than ever before. He said, "The sky's the limit, man. Y'all got me feeling that way. I finally believe in myself enough to actually sing in front of people." Doug has also been posting videos showing off his new smile and taking requests from fans for what he called "corona songs" to sing and play on social media. Doug Kiker's bright new smile and music videos aren't the only good news these days for American Idol fans. The first half of the season was pre-taped and not affected by coronavirus shutdowns, but how the show would move forward without being able to film in front of a live audience was a looming question throughout the start of spring 2020. During the show's virtual return on April 12, 2020, judge Katy Perry was optimistic about the competition's future and predicted fans will be pleased with the rest of the season, even if filming is a little more difficult after sending contestants home. Perry also answered fans' questions about American Idol from her parked car via Facebook Live. Asked about how the show was going to handle all its personnel being in quarantine, the pop star made it clear they'd have to get creative. No matter what happens with American Idol this season, the show has already found its breakout star in Doug Kiker, and his charming new smile. Watch the video to see how an American Idol Favorite Reveals A Head-Turning Transformation! #AmericanIdol #CelebrityTransformations