Movies

‘She cared’: Slain ‘American Idol’ music supervisor Robin Kaye remembered by peers

BBG News

Notable music supervisor Robin Kaye, famously recognized for her extended stint on “American Idol,” departs with a lasting impact of warmth, compassion, and happiness.

On a recent Instagram post, singer-songwriter Didi Benami, who once competed on “Idol,” expressed her affection for Kaye by calling her “one of the kindest individuals I’ve ever collaborated with.” Tragically, Kaye and her husband Tom Deluca were victims of a double homicide in their Encino home, as confirmed by Los Angeles police this Tuesday. Both were 70 years old when they passed away.

Even now, I’m struggling to understand and accept it all. My heart is shattered. Some people leave a radiance that lingers even after they’re gone, and Robin was one of those souls. Robin, you are deeply cherished. Your love and light will forever be remembered.

Vocal instructor Benami, who appeared in Season 9 of “Idol,” was among the musicians and industry figures expressing appreciation for Kaye’s work on social media. Kaye worked as a music supervisor for “American Idol” from 2009 to 2023, contributing to approximately 300 episodes during her time there.

In a statement to The Times on Tuesday, an American Idol representative referred to Kaye as a “pillar” of the “Idol” family and stated that they were deeply saddened by the news of her and Deluca’s passing. According to the statement, she was greatly admired and valued by everyone who knew her.

California

Despite being strongly fortified, the authorities noted that the suspect somehow gained access via an unsecured entrance. Upon their return, he is said to have encountered the couple.

Randy Jackson, one of the original judges on “American Idol,” shared similar thoughts on Instagram, saying on Tuesday that Kaye was a cherished friend to many – including judges, executives, contestants, writers, producers, and artists. He posted a picture of himself with Kaye, explaining in his caption that she always went above and beyond, carefully making sure songs were properly placed and cleared for the show.

“She was truly one of a kind,” he said.

During a conversation with The Times on Wednesday, Brad Segal, a frequent music provider for “Idol,” emphasized Kaye’s compassionate character, faithfulness, and strong work ethic. He expressed that such qualities are what one hopes to find when meeting someone new. Segal shared that he first encountered Kaye in the early 2000s and has occasionally collaborated with her on various TV projects over the years.

He commended Kaye for her extensive understanding of various music genres and noted that she contributed to a relaxed work environment, which was instrumental in their prolonged partnership on “Idol”. Segal shared with The Times that Kaye was adaptable when working alongside collaborators, from him to the contestants she mentored. Essentially, he emphasized that she demonstrated care.

California

On Monday, music supervisor for ‘American Idol’, Robin Kaye, along with another individual, were discovered with gunshot wounds at a residence in Encino. It’s been reported that an arrest has been made according to The Times’ sources.

“She cared about what she did. She cared about being fair,” Segal said.

It’s suspected that Kaye and Deluca were tragically killed after unexpectedly encountering a burglary suspect within their $4.5-million residence on Thursday, as reported by LAPD. The individual in question, 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian of Encino, has been identified by homicide investigators as the intruder. It is believed that he managed to gain access to the well-secured home through an unlatched door, according to police. Upon their return home, a conflict apparently occurred between them, which ultimately led to the suspect taking their lives, the authorities stated.

The authorities found the bodies of two individuals on Monday afternoon, around 2:30 p.m., during a welfare check in the 4700 block of White Oak Avenue. LAPD Detective Meghan Aguilar confirmed this on Tuesday morning. Upon arrival, paramedics pronounced the duo deceased at the location itself.

On Tuesday, Boodarian was peacefully taken into custody by a joint team of LAPD and FBI officers, as stated by Lt. Guy Golan. The killings seem unrelated at first glance, but the investigators are exploring any potential links between the suspect and Deluca and Kaye.

Read More

2025-07-17 01:01

Previous post MCU’s Avengers Has an Official New Leader and It’s Not Captain America
Next post Marvel’s Youngest Hero Is Born!