Latest news with #Kaye
CNBC
18 hours ago
- Business
- CNBC
36-year-old lives and travels in her truck full-time, spends $1,305/month: 'I'm comfortable in very small spaces'
In 2019, Ashley Kaye took a scuba diving trip to Honduras that changed the course of her life. On that trip, Kaye met someone who travels full-time, and the conversation they had helped her realize she wanted to leave her career and life in Wisconsin behind and continue traveling. "He told me he wished he had done it sooner because it's so much easier and cheaper than you think. That changed everything for me," Kaye tells CNBC Make It. "I went home and worked more and more until I quit the next year." When Kaye quit her job in 2020, she says she had about $37,000 in savings, but what she struggled with the most was not having a job to fill her time. "I didn't know how to just do nothing. The first few months were really hard and I wasn't sure if I was making the right decision," she says. "Once I got into my rhythm of traveling and growing my confidence through that experience, I've never looked back and don't have a single regret about leaving." Kaye spent the next three years traveling the world, including to South Africa. In 2022, a couple reached out to Kaye on Instagram to ask about her time there and shared their own experience overlanding in a Toyota truck with a camper. Overlanding is a form of self-reliant travel that involves adventuring to remote destinations, typically in a vehicle of some type. After doing a bit of her own research, Kaye was all-in and purchased a Toyota Tacoma truck for $42,934, according to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It. Kaye picked up the truck in South Dakota and drove it back to Wisconsin, where she had just sold her childhood home for $320,000. In March 2023, Kaye drove to Baja California, Mexico, where she spent time arranging the necessary renovations to make the truck more livable. "My life is kind of like 'the plan is there is no plan.' Most people plan this type of adventure for years. I didn't even have a truck when I accepted the offer on my house," she says. "It was very spur of the moment, so I needed to take a pause and figure things out." She estimates she spent over $50,000 on the renovations. The costs included purchasing a camper, adding solar power, replacing the truck bed, upgrading the suspension, new tires, customizing a bumper, and installing an electric cooler. When the truck was ready, Kaye decided to journey the Pan-American highway, starting in Denver. The highway stretches from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska to Ushuaia, Argentina. "It's really an incredible way to travel because you get to set your own pace and if you find somewhere that's beautiful and peaceful you can stay as long as you want," Kaye says. "But there's pros and cons to every mode of travel and a lot of red tape and logistics crossing borders. It can be exhausting, especially when you're alone. You have to find a balance that works for you, but overall, it's definitely one of the coolest adventures of my lifetime." Kaye's time on the road is split between travel days and leisure days. On a travel day, she gets up early to break everything down and secure it all in the camper before embarking on a five- to seven-hour drive. On average, Kaye estimates that she spends $556 a month on gas and $453 a month on food. "The easiest part for me is being comfortable in very small spaces and I'm totally content. I can spend all day inside the camper and not feel suffocated or claustrophobic," Kaye says. "I'm constantly seeing so many vast spaces within nature that I'm really content." Once she reaches her destination, Kaye likes to stay for two to three nights before moving on to the next one. Since Kaye's truck doesn't have a bathroom, she uses a box toilet and a portable shower bag. "I try to organize everything in the truck and camper so that it's just the way that it's supposed to be. Powering down is the kind of goal on the second day," Kaye says. Kaye's other expenses include $96 a month for her cellphone bill and $200 a month for her Starlink internet. She's also spent upwards of $6,000 for unique experiences like a week-long scuba diving trip in the Galápagos Islands. Kaye has been living in the truck for years now, but says the most challenging part is still setting up and breaking down the camper. "Even though it is very simple, it's one of those things you have to do every time," she says. "If you are somebody who makes your bed every time, it's no problem, but if you're somebody who doesn't, it feels like a burden." While Kaye still hasn't finished journeying the Pan-American Highway, she is considering selling the truck at the beginning of next year. "Part of me wants to just get rid of it and move on and enter the next chapter of my life but then the larger part of me is like 'no, maybe just wait because I want to see some other places and just chill,'" she says. "I just want to finish my adventure. I'm not tired of living in the camper and I'm not tired of that lifestyle, but I am tired of driving." Kaye doesn't know where she'll settle if she ever sells the truck, but returning to the U.S. full-time is unlikely. If she ever does buy another house in the States, Kaye says it will be an investment and a source of income if she decides to rent it out. She's currently considering a life in the South of France, Spain or Italy. "Each one of them has their challenges. For me, it's about finding somewhere that I want to be and then I can deal with whatever the challenges and hoops are that come with that," she says.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Startling revelation in American Idol exec's murder: Robin Kaye, husband dead for 4 days, cops didn't enter house
. In a startling revelation in the mysterious murder case of American Idol executive Robin Kaye, and her husband, Thomas Deluca, it has now been found that they lay dead for at least four days inside their Los Angeles home after suffering multiple gunshots when they probably stopped a burglar. The burglary was reported and police came to the house but never went inside the property. Authorities received a burglary complaint on July 10, but never actually went inside the property, as there were no noticeable signs of forced entry. The suspect, identified as Raymond Boodarian, 22, might have been inside the house when the police officers initially visited the property. 'A confrontation ensued, which resulted in the suspect taking their lives,' the LAPD said, explaining the scenario that might have unfolded before the shooting, while it remains unclear when exactly the couple died or whether they were still alive when authorities first visited the home that day. Officers carried out a welfare check at the property on Monday, which is when they discovered the bodies. Kaye was found in the pantry, and Deluca was in the bathroom, both with multiple gunshot wounds to the head. Authorities discovered a trail of blood leading to the front of the property and entered the home through a shattered glass sliding door at the back, as the front door was locked. Boodarian was arrested without incident on July 15. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If You Have Arthritis Avoid This Food jointrehabcenter Learn More Undo He was formally charged with two counts of murder as well as one count of residential burglary involving a person on July 17. The murder charges carry special circumstance allegations, including multiple murders and committing murder during a burglary, along with firearm allegations. Boodarian was previously accused of threatening his family. 'I know at one time he tried stabbing his mom, I believe, or got violent with a knife,' a neighbour of Booadarian was quoted as saying by Fox News. 'I just know he was troubled. I know he was on medication, on and off medication… he needed help,' the neighbour added. Kaye previously expressed concerns about rising burglaries in the neighborhood and sought additional security measures, as per Kris Herzog, a former police officer. Kaye worked on around 300 episodes of 'American Idol' between 2009 to 2023. Her other works also include The Singing Bee, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as well as multiple Miss Universe Specials.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘American Idol' Music Supervisor Robin Kaye and Her Husband Die in Double Homicide; Arrest Made
An arrest has been made after longtime American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were killed following an apparent double homicide. American Idol, in a statement from a spokesperson and obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, 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.' More from The Hollywood Reporter KCON L.A. Returns - How to Secure the Best Ticket Deals (and Stream the Festival Online for Free) Kelly Clarkson Just Kicked Off Her Vegas Residency - Here's How to Save on Last-Minute Tickets The Best U.S. Music Festivals of 2025, from Lollapalooza to Ohana Fest Kaye, a veteran of music reality series, worked for American Idol from 2009 to the present day. She was responsible for clearing all songs used or performed on the show and was instrumental in getting Led Zeppelin to sign off on an Idol performance of 'Whole Lotta Love' — a standout of season 8 when future Queen frontman Adam Lambert brought down the house. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department told THR on Tuesday that LAPD officers in Encino responded to a call for a welfare check at a home on White Oak Avenue on Monday at around 2:30 p.m. On entering the home, a couple, one male and one female, was discovered with possible gunshot wounds. Paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department then arrived at the residence and declared the couple dead at the scene. Upon further investigation, LAPD said that they later learned that a prior radio call had been made for a possible burglary suspect at the home on July 10 at around 4 p.m. 'While there were no signs of forced entry or trouble at the location during that investigation, it is now believed that the suspect had gained entry into the residence through an unlocked door,' authorities shared in a press release. 'The victims returned home while the suspect was inside their residence, and a confrontation ensued, which resulted in the suspect taking their lives. The victims succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, and the suspect fled from the residence on foot.' LAPD has since arrested the suspect, identified as 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian. TMZ was the first to report that the couple was Kaye and Deluca. Kaye's other music supervisor credits included work on Lip Sync Battle, After the Sunset, The Singing Bee and Q'Viva!: The Chosen. She began her career on the record company and artist management side of the music industry, working for Waylon Jennings in Nashville, and then MTM Records in artist development. Kaye eventually joined the film and TV licensing department at MCA-Universal Records and then ran the music licensing division at PolyGram Records. In 2000, Kaye launched her own company, SyncroniCity, and represented artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Kenny Loggins, Lang Lang, Donny Osmond and Steven Bishop. That eventually led her into music supervision. Among her other music supervision credits were several editions of the Miss Universe pageant and the NAACP Image Awards. Deluca was a songwriter and musician. His last album, Street Rock, was released in 2022, according to his website. Tributes to Kaye from former Idol contestants are flooding in as the community absorbs the shock of her passing. Colton Dixon, an Idol finalist from season 11, tells THR: 'I'm absolutely devastated. 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.' Adds season 8's Scott MacIntyre: '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.' American Idol season 10 contestant Casey Abrams wrote on Instagram, 'RIP Robin. You took care of me on Idol! I'm happy I knew you[.] Sending love to Kaye Family.' Michele Angermiller and Fred Bronson contributed to this report. July 15, 2:45 p.m. Updated with a statement from an American Idol spokesperson. July 15, 4:45 p.m. Updated with statement from American Idol contestant Casey Abrams. July 15, 7:10 p.m. Updated with statement from LAPD on arrest made in case. Best of The Hollywood Reporter 'The Studio': 30 Famous Faces Who Play (a Version of) Themselves in the Hollywood-Based Series 22 of the Most Shocking Character Deaths in Television History A 'Star Wars' Timeline: All the Movies and TV Shows in the Franchise
Yahoo
2 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
USA Today
2 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Panthers beat reporter offers up surprise challenger for team's WR competition
For the first time in a long time, the Carolina Panthers have themselves a good depth problem at the wideout position. In fact, one of the most overlooked names on the depth chart even has a real chance of making the initial 53-man roster at the end of the summer. Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer joined WFNZ's Will Palaszczuk on Thursday's episode of The Kyle Bailey Show. When talking about the Panthers' crowded receiver room, Kaye brought up a dark-horse candidate who has a shot at rounding out the group—"Dirty" Dan Chisena. "Realistically, they're probably gonna keep six [wide receivers]. If they keep seven, I think the seventh guy's Chisena . . . just for his special teams ability," Kaye stated. "You lost Feleipe Franks, you lost Lonnie Johnson, you lost Sam Franklin. David Moore and Dan Chisena are guys that are glue dudes who are also really good on special teams, and you need to make up for those losses as well." Chisena, who is set to enter his sixth NFL campaign, appeared in six games for the Panthers in 2024. 81 of his 100 total snaps came on special teams—where he recorded a pair of tackles in return coverage. Returning to the squad for 2025, however, may not be easy for the 28-year-old veteran. Carolina has four locks—or near-locks—in 2025 first-round pick Tetairoa McMillan, 2024 first-round pick Xavier Legette, two-time Pro Bowler Adam Thielen and Jalen Coker. Moore, 2025 sixth-rounder Jimmy Horn Jr. and Hunter Renfrow, who missed the 2024 season due to ulcerative colitis, will also challenge for the backend of the bunch. But, as Kaye notes, the Panthers will have to patch up their major departures on special teams—and head coach Dave Canales really values special teams. "I think it's gonna be very difficult," Canales said last month of choosing between wideouts. "I think that we're gonna have to take it through the preseason games, and see who can help us. And special teams is gonna be such a huge piece of that puzzle. How can these guys help us in the coverage units? Can they help us as a returner? Those things, that added value—if it's even the special teamer—makes the team. "So that's the part where we get to challenge our guys. Find a role, take this thing seriously. You're not here just to catch passes. We only get so many helmets on game day, so we need all of you. We need you guys to contribute in different ways.' Canales and the Panthers kept seven receivers on their initial 53-man roster last season. Players are scheduled to get back to Charlotte for the start of training camp next week, beginning with rookie arrivals on Monday. Follow @ThePanthersWire on Twitter/X for more Panthers content.
