Latest news with #Idol
Global News
5 days ago
- Global News
Suspect in killing of ‘American Idol' music supervisor charged with murder
A 22-year-old man suspected in the shooting deaths of a longtime music supervisor for American Idol and her husband at their home in Los Angeles was charged with two counts of murder on Thursday. Robin Kaye, who worked on the show for more than a decade, and her husband, Thomas Deluca, both 70, were found dead in their Encino home on Monday, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Police were conducting a welfare check at the home when they found their bodies with gunshot wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. Raymond Boodarian, an Encino resident, was arrested Tuesday afternoon, police said. Investigators believe he was burglarizing the residence on July 10 while the couple was away and shot them when they suddenly returned. Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy Boodarian faces charges including two counts of murder and one count of first-degree burglary, Deputy District Attorney Hilary Williams said. Story continues below advertisement If convicted, Boodarian faces a possible maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. His arraignment was scheduled for Aug. 20. 'In a matter of moments, this couple was senselessly killed in their own home as they returned from the grocery store,' Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said in a statement. Hochman said the tragic shooting 'has shaken a valley community and the notion that home should be our safe sanctuary.' 'Our thoughts and prayers go out to their family and friends who are grieving this tremendous loss,' Hochman added. A statement from American Idol was released after Kaye and Deluca's deaths. 'We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband, Tom's, passing,' the statement said. '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, an industry veteran, had also worked in the music departments of several other productions, such as The Singing Bee, Hollywood Game Night, Lip Sync Battle and several Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants. Story continues below advertisement The case remains under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department. Boodarian is being held without the possibility of bond. — with files from Global News' Michelle Butterfield and The Associated Press
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘American Idol' Family Mourns Death of Show's Music Supervisor, Robin Kaye
The extended American Idol family is in mourning today at the shocking loss of the series' longtime music supervisor, Robin Kaye, who was found murdered along with her husband Thomas DeLuca in their Encino home on Monday (July 15). With a long history of working at record labels like MTM, MCA and PolyGram, including positions where she licensed music for film and TV, Kaye joined the series in 2009 and is the longest tenured music supervisor in the show's 24-year run. Credited with working on some 300 episodes, she was responsible for clearing thousands of songs for broadcast — from performances by finalists to group numbers to 'home week' themes. More from The Hollywood Reporter Former Avex USA CEO Naoki Osada Launches Global Venture Nebula17 'American Idol' Music Supervisor Robin Kaye and Her Husband Die in Double Homicide; Arrest Made Beyoncé and Jay-Z to Compete Against Each Other for an Emmy This Year Indeed, Kaye was instrumental in convincing Led Zeppelin to allow a cover of 'Whole Lotta Love' to be performed by Adam Lambert on Season 8 — a first for the classic rock band. In a 2009 interview, Kaye shared how she convinced the band's representatives to approve use of the song. 'I said, 'This is the time to consider it. If you're ever going to try it, this is the time.' I don't know if Robert Plant knew, but his manager did because his kids were big Adam fans. They watched the show in England.' Kaye was still working on the coming season of Idol at the time of her death. The Hollywood Reporter reached out to many of the contestants who were guided by Kaye during the 16 seasons she served as a member of the production staff. Here are their heartfelt statements – the words 'kind' and 'calm' show up many times in these tributes from those contestants who are devastated by her death. 'Robin was such a huge part of my success on the show. She's the reason I was able to perform 'Falling Slowly' and 'Heartless.' She fought for getting what song I would feel comfortable singing that week cleared. But more than that she was always so understanding and kind. Going through that show was stressful and the people that were understanding and kind behind the scenes made it all OK. Robin was at the top of that list. And it was the same every time I saw her afterward. My heart goes out to her and her husbands' families.' – Kris Allen, Season 8 winner 'I met many amazing people during my time on American Idol, but Robin always stood out as someone I immediately bonded with. She treated me like a son almost immediately. She was caring and understanding of the stresses of the show, especially with choosing a song. She made each conversation with me feel important. I'm so lucky to have been able to return to Idol last year to promote the Broadway Show A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical. Robin was the first person to text me to tell me how happy she was to have me back, and she went right to work to figure out what songs I would be doing. She will be missed. This is truly an unthinkable tragedy.' – Nick Fradiani, Season 14 winner and star of 'I had the absolute pleasure of working closely with Robin during my time on American Idol. It felt like we spoke almost daily, as she was such a key part of the experience. We used to laugh because she'd always catch me trying to dodge her for a few extra minutes after a performance, especially when she was already asking what I was going to sing next week, sometimes just moments after finding out I made it through to the next round. That was Robin: sharp, quick, always 10 steps ahead, but always leading with care and doing everything she could to guide and support us through such a wild, life-changing time. Robin was such an impactful part of my Idol journey, and I credit so much of my growth on the show to her. She pushed me, motivated me, and helped shape me into the artist I am today. She was a real advocate, especially for artists like me who didn't always fit the typical mold. She made you feel seen and respected while always keeping it real. I feel really grateful I saw Robin recently at this past season's Idol finale and was able to tell her I loved and missed her. We hugged, caught up, and celebrated the historic win of Jamal, the first black male winner since Ruben Studdard. As a black singer myself, I'll always remember how Robin treated me with respect, love, and unwavering encouragement. She played a huge role in my journey, and I'll forever be thankful for her kindness and support. My heart breaks knowing her husband was also taken in this senseless tragedy. I'm sending my deepest condolences to their family, their loved ones, and my Idol family. Hollywood will feel a little dimmer without her.' – Rayvon Owen, Season 14 'I am incredibly saddened to hear the horrific news about Robin Kaye and her husband's tragic murder. Working with Robin on the show was a true pleasure. She had a calming spirit with such kind and compassionate eyes. She talked to me as if she were a friend or family member that I'd known my whole life. She worked hard to help make my dreams (and so many others) come true by getting approval of songs that I deeply connected with so that I could perform them on Idol. (Including getting full approval from Robert Plant and Jimmy Page to do Led Zeppelin's 'What Is and What Should Never Be.' I remember the feeling of being in her presence like it was yesterday. I'm so grateful to have shared that special time with her. May she and her husband rest in peace.' – Haley Reinhart, Season 10 'My family and I are heartbroken over the loss of Robin Kaye. She was a genuine advocate for the artists, someone who truly cared. Her heart was always in the right place, and she remained a friend long after the show ended. Robin championed me all the way through the top 10, and her belief in my artistry helped bring my performance of so many songs, including [Katy Perry's] 'Unconditionally,' to life. That moment was powerful, not just because of the song, but because Robin stood behind it. J-Lo loved how I arranged the song and Robin supported that. That memory means the world to me, and I owe it in large part to Robin's vision and support. She wasn't just a remarkable music supervisor, but a quiet force behind some of Idol's most iconic moments, and a truly beautiful soul. Robin had that rare ability to make artists feel seen and valued, not just as performers, but as people. Her kindness, her insight, and her steadfast encouragement shaped careers and lifted spirits. She will be missed more than words can say. Thank you, Robin, for believing. For caring. For giving so much of yourself. Your legacy lives on in the music, and in all of us who had the privilege of knowing you.' – Olivia Rox, Season 15 'Although we haven't been in touch in recent years, I remember Robin as being incredibly kind and supportive during my time on Idol. She worked tirelessly to help us get our songs cleared and was such an essential part of the show behind the scenes. Her presence and dedication will be deeply missed.' – Pia Toscano, Season 10 'Every week when we went to the producers to sing our song choice for the next show, Robin was our shining light. You'd look around the room singing your heart out and meet the eyes of these legendary producers who've heard every contestant from Carrie Underwood to Adam Lambert. You were giving your best and it was their job to punch holes in it. You couldn't help but feel intimidated. It was necessary, but terrifying! And then you'd meet Robin's eyes. This beautiful beacon of light sitting near the door with her notepad. No matter what, she would always be smiling, and her eyebrows lifted as if to say, 'You're doing great! Keep going! I love this song!' Although she's gone, that smile will live with me forever.' – Clark Beckham, Season 14 'Robin wasn't just a music supervisor, but a friend. While she suggested song choices and gave advice to me on American Idol, what I appreciated even more about her was that she took the time to schedule calls with me long after I was on the show. We would text, and we talked about different paths I could potentially take to remain in the music world while establishing a sustainable career. She didn't have to do that, but she took the time for me and did it anyway. I always had musical conversations with her while on Idol. Several times, it was her song suggestion that kept me on the show during major elimination rounds. There need to be more people like Robin, and I'm truly shocked to hear this news. I can't fathom the amount of hatred in your heart you have to have to take the lives of such sweet people.' – Jessica Meuse, Season 13 'I'm absolutely devastated to hear the news about my friend Robin. Though I shouldn't play favorites, 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 'I will always remember Robin as one of the calmest, kindest presences on set. She was a true master of music clearance – thoughtful, persistent and deeply respected in her field. I'll never forget that she got [Fleetwood Mac's] 'Rhiannon' cleared for me – a song that had never been approved on American Idol before. That moment was incredibly special to me, and it wouldn't have happened without her. Years after the show, I had dinner with Robin and her husband at their old house in Toluca Lake. It was a beautiful, peaceful place, and they were such warm, gracious hosts. I remember how much they both loved music, how Robin lit up when we met their parrot, and how easy it was to feel at home in their presence. It was one of those evenings that stays with you. I'm in shock, gutted, and utterly heartbroken. Robin and her husband were gentle, good souls — the kind of people who wouldn't hurt anyone. They didn't deserve this. My heart goes out to their families and loved ones, and I truly hope justice is found.' – Didi Benami, Season 9 '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 a 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.' – Scott MacIntyre, Season 8 'Robin was such a sweet woman. I remember being touched by her calm voice and warmth. We talked on a weekly basis during my time on Idol. Because of Robin I was able to showcase one of my favorite songs, 'Somos Novios' [the Spanish version of the Perry Como hit 'It's Impossible'], which wasn't originally on the list of cleared songs. But she fought for that and made it happen. Had it not been for Robin, I wouldn't have been able to take the risk of singing Beyoncé in Spanish. But Robin found a way to clear 'Oye,' the Spanish version of 'Listen' from the movie Dreamgirls. After going years without speaking, I had the pleasure of working with her last year when I was asked to be a vocal coach for the most stressful part of the audition process – Hollywood Week. Robin still had the same calm and warm energy our team needed to make sure we could do our jobs smoothly, so the contestants could showcase the songs they wanted. I'm grateful for knowing her and hope to leave an impression like she did. I don't know anyone that could say anything bad about her or her character. She will be missed and she will be celebrated for the ways in which she encouraged those around her.' – Devin Velez, Season 12 'Most of our interactions were about the songs I wanted to sing on the show. She was always really sweet, accommodating and humble. She always tried her best to get the songs that we wanted to sing cleared, but if she got a 'no,' she would work quickly to find alternatives for us. I'm shocked by her passing. It is a tragic loss for the entire Idol family.' – Danny Gokey, Season 8 Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick were executive producers of American Idol when Kaye joined the production staff. 'Robin was a joy to work with,' Lythgoe tells The Hollywood Reporter. 'If there was a piece of music that she couldn't get permission to use she would have numerous other ideas to offer the contestant.'Adds Warwick: 'Robin was a pleasure to work with. She always kept a cool head in a job that was difficult and manic. She never ceased to deliver and no matter what the stress of a weekly live television show, and she always had a friendly and pleasant demeanor. My heart goes out to her family, she will be truly missed.'The ABC-TV series issued an official statement about Kaye's death: '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.' With additional reporting by Michele Angermiller Best of The Hollywood Reporter From 'Party in the U.S.A.' to 'Born in the U.S.A.': 20 of America's Most Patriotic (and Un-Patriotic) Musical Offerings Most Anticipated Concert Tours of 2025: Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar & SZA, Sabrina Carpenter and More Hollywood's Most Notable Deaths of 2025
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Juice Wrld's ex-mansion at center of chilling L.A. murder case involving American Idol staffer
A Los Angeles mansion once owned by the late rapper Juice Wrld has become the center of a disturbing double-murder investigation. Authorities discovered the bodies of American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, at the $4.5 million property earlier this week. Both victims were found with gunshot wounds to the head and were pronounced dead at the scene. Police arrested 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian for the alleged double homicide. According to Lt. Guy Golan, surveillance footage showed Boodarian scaling the property's fence before entering through an unlocked door. A violent confrontation occurred when the homeowners returned, ultimately resulting in their deaths. Police believe the suspect was inside the home for about 30 minutes. Just four days earlier, officers had responded to a potential burglary at the same residence but found no signs of forced entry. Investigators are now exploring whether Boodarian had any prior connection to the victims. American Idol released a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of Kaye, who had worked with the show since 2009. 'Robin was a cornerstone of the Idol family… She will remain in our hearts forever.' This tragic incident comes shortly after Juice Wrld's estate reissued his Legends Never Die album in a deluxe edition, marking five years since its release. Juice Wrld passed away in December 2019 from a drug overdose after a police search at Chicago's Midway Airport. The chilling events have brought renewed attention to Juice Wrld's former home, casting a dark shadow over a property once associated with music success.
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
'American Idol' music supervisor and husband both found dead at LA home
An "American Idol' music supervisor and her husband were both found dead in their Los Angeles home Monday afternoon. Officers were conducting a welfare check at a home in the Encino neighbourhood when they found the bodies of a man and woman with gunshot wounds. An "American Idol' spokesperson confirmed the deaths of Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, both 70. The couple owned their home, according to public records. "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,' an "American Idol' spokesperson said in a statement. "Robin will remain in our hearts forever and we share our deepest sympathy with her family and friends during this difficult time.' Los Angeles police said Tuesday afternoon they arrested 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian in connection with the couple's deaths. Boodarian was allegedly burglarizing their home while the couple was away July 10. He is accused of shooting and killing Kaye and her husband when they returned and then fleeing on foot. Boodarian has not yet been assigned a public defender and could not be reached for comment. Police responded that same afternoon to reports of a burglary at the Encino home, but said in a press release there were "no signs of forced entry or trouble.' Kaye, an industry veteran, has also worked in the music departments of several other productions such as "The Singing Bee,' "Hollywood Game Night," "Lip Sync Battle,' and several Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants. Associated Press
The Hindu
6 days ago
- The Hindu
What to know about the killings of an 'American Idol' music supervisor and her husband in LA
Los Angeles police officers conducting a welfare check at a gated home on Monday discovered two bodies with gunshot wounds. The victims were identified as Robin Kaye, a longtime music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca. A day later, police arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with the killings. Here's what to know about the case. Officials said someone who hadn't heard from Kaye and Deluca in several days requested that police check their residence on a tree-lined block in the upscale Encino neighborhood, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Officers entered the house Monday afternoon and found a man and woman shot to death. Homicide detectives were called to the scene. The victims were identified on Tuesday as Kaye and Deluca, both aged 70. The couple had purchased the home in the San Fernando Valley suburb for $4.5 million, according to public records. Raymond Boodarian, 22, an Encino resident, was arrested 'without incident' Tuesday afternoon, police said in a statement. Investigators believe Boodarian was burglarizing the home several days earlier while the couple was away. Police had been called to the residence on July 10 but found no signs of trouble or forced entry. Now, detectives suspect that Boodarian managed to enter through an unlocked door and was surprised by Kaye and Deluca upon their return. 'The victims returned home while the suspect was inside their residence, and a confrontation ensued, which resulted in the suspect taking their lives,' the police statement said. 'The victims succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, and the suspect fled from the residence on foot.' Officers interviewed friends and family, reviewed surveillance footage, and recovered unspecified evidence at the scene. The district attorney's office expects to be presented with the case on Thursday, with Boodarian's arraignment to follow. He could not be reached for comment. Messages were sent to the public defender's office to confirm legal representation. Court records show Boodarian was arrested in 2024 for alleged battery, exhibiting a deadly weapon, and threatening to commit a crime with intent to terrorize. Charges were later dismissed. Kaye had worked with American Idol for more than 15 years and was working on the upcoming season at the time of her death. She also contributed to The Singing Bee, Hollywood Game Night, Lip Sync Battle, and several Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants. '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,' an American Idol spokesperson said in a statement Tuesday. 'Robin will remain in our hearts forever and we share our deepest sympathy with her family and friends during this difficult time.' Her work included clearing rights for thousands of songs for broadcast. In a 2009 interview, Kaye told The Hollywood Reporter how she persuaded Led Zeppelin's representatives to approve the use of Whole Lotta Love for Adam Lambert to perform during Season 8. 'I said, 'This is the time to consider it. If you're ever going to try it, this is the time.' I don't know if Robert Plant knew, but his manager did because his kids were big Adam fans. They watched the show in England,' Kaye said. Nick Fradiani, the Season 14 American Idol winner, told The Hollywood Reporter that Kaye treated him like a son and called her death a tragedy. 'She was caring and understanding of the stresses of the show, especially with choosing a song. She made each conversation with me feel important,' said Fradiani, who is now starring in A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical.
