Double Murder Rocks Hollywood: American Idol Music Supervisor Robin Kaye and Husband Killed in Encino Home

LOS ANGELES — In a chilling tragedy that has shaken the entertainment industry, Robin Kaye, a respected music supervisor for “American Idol,” and her husband, musician Tom Deluca, were found shot to death inside their Southern California home Sunday afternoon. The couple, both 70, were beloved figures in the music world — known more for their quiet dedication to the craft than for seeking the spotlight.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, officers responded to a welfare check at the couple’s residence in Encino around 2:30 p.m. on July 14. A concerned acquaintance reported they hadn’t heard from Kaye or Deluca for several days. When officers arrived and entered the home, they discovered the couple deceased — both victims of multiple gunshot wounds.

Investigators now believe the suspect, identified as Raymond Boodarian, 22, may have broken into the residence days earlier, on July 10, through an unlocked door. The LAPD had been called to the home that day for a suspected burglary, but at the time, found no signs of forced entry.

Tragically, officials suspect the couple may have walked in on the intruder. “A confrontation ensued, which resulted in the suspect taking their lives,” LAPD said in a statement. Boodarian allegedly fled the scene on foot. He was later arrested and is currently in custody as detectives work to determine whether he had any prior connection to the victims.

The investigation remains ongoing.

🎤 A Legacy Behind the Music

Robin Kaye’s work may have happened behind the scenes, but her impact was front and center on American television screens for over 15 years. Since 2009, she served as the music supervisor for “American Idol,” a role that demanded not only sharp instincts but also deep musical knowledge. She was responsible for securing performance rights, shaping musical selections, and helping the show’s contestants bring their sound to life.

Her career spanned from Season 8, the year Kris Allen was crowned winner to Season 23, which concluded just weeks ago with Jamal Roberts taking the title. During her tenure, Kaye earned accolades, including the Guild of Music Supervisors Award in 2014 for her work in reality television. For colleagues, she was more than a supervisor; she was a steady hand, a trusted ear, and a guiding force.

Her husband, Tom Deluca, was a lifelong musician and creative partner. Together, the couple built a life surrounded by art, melody, and meaning — a life now cut tragically short.

💔 The Idol Family Mourns

“We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband, Tom’s, passing,” American Idol said in a statement released Monday. “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.”

📝 MainEvent.News | Randy’s Take

This story hurts. Not just because we lost two talented people — but because it was so senseless. Robin Kaye was the kind of professional who made television magic without ever stepping in front of the camera. Her fingerprints are on some of the most memorable “Idol” performances of the last two decades. Tom Deluca, her husband and musical soulmate, shared that journey with her. They were partners in life and in art — and now they’re both gone, victims of an act so cruel it leaves us stunned.

As someone who covers this industry, I ask that we remember them not just for how they died, but for how they lived. Let’s tell their story loudly because the quiet ones behind the curtain deserve to be heard.