American Idol’s Rickey Smith Killed in Car Crash

Former “American Idol” finalist Rickey Smith was killed Thursday night in a multi-car highway wreck in Oklahoma.

Smith was on I-240 just outside Oklahoma City when, according to reports, another man driving the wrong way on the interstate slammed head-on into Smith’s vehicle. Cops say the other driver was hospitalized and booked for DUI.

Smith competed on the second season of ‘Idol,’ and finished in eighth place. Ruben Studdard took the title that year.

Rickey was 36.

Here is a news report from News9. WARNING: Footage of the crashed cars are included in the report

News9.com – Oklahoma City, OK – News, Weather, Video and Sports |

Rickey only got to 8th place in the competition, nevertheless, the lovable singer had a devoted fanbase. Who could forget his catch phrase “Hercules, Hercules.” Rest in Peace, Rickey.

This was the first video that came up when I did a youtube search, “I’ve Done Enough Dyin” today by Larry Gatlin on Country Rock Night for Top 10 night.

Rickey is eliminated

Rickey’s fellow season two alum, Clay Aiken, tweets condolences.

Suffice it to say my heart is truly breaking today. ? Heaven's choir has a new beautiful voice. I love you and will miss you, Rickey. ?

— Clay Aiken (@clayaiken) May 6, 2016

Season 6 Idol Melinda Doolittle performed some post-Idol gigs with Rickey. She shares her thoughts on Instagram.

There is absolutely nothing that can prepare you for this. Rickey, you will be missed so very much. I can't find the words right now. I'm devastated. Rest in sweet peace, my friend. I am blessed to have known you. #RickeySmith #AmericanIdol

A photo posted by @mdoolittle on May 6, 2016 at 10:16am PDT

From season 2 winner Ruben Studdard

As I sit here in utter disbelief about the fact that you went to be with the Lord. I think back on all the fun times we had. How we set up for hours in our room in the Idol Mansion talking and listening to music. How much fun we all had on our very first tour. You were the heart of our season and the true definition of a real friend.. I will miss you my Friend RIP Ricky Smith. I'm sure you're in heaven singing you're heart out!!!

A photo posted by @realrubenstuddard on May 6, 2016 at 10:28am PDT

American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe

Keep singing it in Heaven , Rickey. "What the World Needs Now is Love Sweet Love." pic.twitter.com/zXXvBwpBDC

— Nigel Lythgoe OBE (@dizzyfeet) May 6, 2016