American Idol executive and husband shot dead in LA; 22-year-old suspect arrested

Indian Express

20 hours ago

Longtime American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were found dead at their LA home on Monday. The couple were reportedly murdered in an apparent double homicide, according to NBC News. Both were 70 years old, and they were shot dead in separate rooms, reportedly at the same time. On Tuesday evening, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested a 22-year-old suspect in the case, Raymond Boodarian. The case is currently under investigation.
According to reports, police were informed about the situation by locals after someone close to the couple requested a welfare check. The authorities arrived around 2:30 p.m. at their Encino residence. When officers got there, they noticed blood at the entrance and went inside, only to find Kaye in the pantry and Deluca in the bathroom, both dead from multiple bullet injuries. While the motive behind the deaths is still being uncovered, just a few days earlier, on Thursday, police had received a phone call reporting a possible burglary in the neighbourhood, but didn't find any signs of forced entry, so they left. 'It is now believed that the suspect had gained entry into the residence through an unlocked door,' police said. When Robin and Tom returned home that day, they likely ran into the shooter, which led to a confrontation. Police believe the suspect shot them both and then fled on foot. 'Police are currently trying to determine whether Boodarian had any connection to Deluca and Kaye,' according to the Independent. Following an initial investigation, authorities arrested Boodarian on Tuesday. He lives in the same Encino neighbourhood. It's still unclear if Boodarian knew the victims personally.
Also read: 'American Idol' alum Jordin Sparks to perform national anthem ahead of 108th Indianapolis 500
American Idol, in a statement to THR, said, 'We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband, Tom's, passing. Robin has been a cornerstone of the Idol family since 2009 and was truly loved and respected by all who came in contact with her. Robin will remain in our hearts forever, and we share our deepest sympathy with her family and friends during this difficult time.'
Kaye had been with American Idol since 2009, having worked on the popular music show across hundreds of episodes. She was a backstage legend, clearing songs for the show and helping create some of its most memorable music moments. Back when it was almost unheard of, she managed to get Led Zeppelin's approval to use 'Whole Lotta Love' on the show. She also worked on Lip Sync Battle, Miss Universe, and the NAACP Image Awards. The music industry is devastated by the news, and tributes have been pouring in from friends, colleagues, and family.
Also read: India to soon have its own K-pop bands backed by BTS' agency: Will HYBE's big bet challenge Bollywood's reign?
'I'm absolutely devastated. Though I shouldn't play favourites, Robin was always a highlight during my time on American Idol. She was quick to listen and always fought for what the artist wanted. She helped make my time on the show an unforgettable experience,' Colton Dixon, season 11 finalist, wrote.
Season 8's Scott MacIntyre said, 'Robin was great at her job. As a blind person, there were always some extra considerations for me to work through when I needed to get hold of music or quickly research new songs to perform. Robin made that process as easy as possible for me and was always willing to go the extra mile. She helped me and a lot of others on our musical journeys.'
Kaye's career in music began in Nashville, the place known for birthing legends, including Taylor Swift. She started with Waylon Jennings, then moved into artist development at MTM Records. After that, she joined MCA-Universal before heading music licensing at PolyGram. In 2000, she launched her own company, SynchroniCity, and was known for representing artists like Andrea Bocelli and Kenny Loggins. Her husband, Tom Deluca, was a songwriter and musician. His final album, Street Rock, dropped in 2022.