The entertainment world is in mourning after the tragic deaths of Robin Kaye, a long-time music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, Thomas DeLuca. The couple was discovered in their Encino home earlier this week, victims of an apparent double homicide. The shocking news has rocked the music and television industries, especially those closely connected to the iconic reality competition series.
Robin Kaye: A Pillar of the ‘American Idol’ Legacy
Robin Kaye, aged 70, was a highly respected and influential music supervisor, best known for her work on American Idol, where she helped shape the musical journey of aspiring artists for over a decade. According to her IMDb profile, Kaye contributed to over 200 episodes of the show between 2009 and 2023, leaving an indelible legacy.
In addition to her work on American Idol, Kaye held over 40 credits as a music consultant or supervisor in popular television programs, including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Singing Bee, Nashville Star, and Hollywood Game Night. Her sharp musical instincts and behind-the-scenes expertise made her a quiet powerhouse in the industry.
Robin Kaye and her husband Thomas DeLuca [Source: Facebook]
What Happened in Encino?
Police were called to perform a welfare check at a home on the 4700 block of White Oak Avenue in Encino around 2:30 PM on Monday, July 15, 2025. Upon arrival, LAPD officers and paramedics found two victims, later identified as Robin Kaye and Thomas DeLuca — who had both sustained fatal gunshot wounds. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed the arrest of Raymond Boodarian, a 22-year-old resident of Encino, in connection with the killings. According to an LAPD news release, Boodarian may have been in the house during a burglary, and a confrontation occurred when the couple returned home, leading to the tragic outcome.
Authorities stated that the suspect was taken into custody without incident. As of now, the motive behind the double homicide remains under investigation.
Industry Reacts to the Loss of Robin Kaye
In an official statement, American Idol producers expressed their devastation over the loss of one of the show’s longest-serving contributors.
“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,” the statement read.
Colleagues and fans alike have taken to social media to honour her memory, with tributes highlighting her professionalism, warmth, and invaluable contributions to television music production. For many, Robin Kaye was more than just a music supervisor — she was a mentor, a team player, and a passionate supporter of musical talent.
The Arrest of Raymond Boodarian: What We Know
The suspect, Raymond Boodarian of Encino, has been arrested and is being held as the primary suspect in what the LAPD describes as a suspected home invasion that escalated into violence. While details remain scarce, authorities have indicated that the victims may have interrupted a burglary in progress, leading to the fatal shooting.
Source: Channel2 NOW
Boodarian, just 22 years old, reportedly lived in the same neighbourhood, raising further questions about how he came to be inside the Kaye-DeLuca residence. Investigators are continuing to collect evidence, and charges are expected to be formally announced in the coming days.
A Look Back at Robin Kaye’s Career
Although her name may not have been widely known outside the industry, Robin Kaye had a profound impact on the evolution of modern televised music competitions. Her ability to match music with emotion and performance helped launch the careers of countless artists.
Beginning her career in the late 1990s, her first major credit came with Buffy the Vampire Slayer in 1998. She quickly became one of the most sought-after music supervisors in Hollywood, eventually landing her most prominent role on American Idol, one of the world’s most iconic talent shows.
In recent years, Kaye remained active in music direction and mentorship, even after stepping away from Idol in 2023.
A Community in Mourning
The Encino community, along with music and television professionals across Los Angeles and beyond, has been shaken by the loss. The incident has also sparked renewed conversations around neighbourhood safety and the rise in violent crime in urban areas.
As the investigation continues, friends, family, and fans are left to grieve not just the death of two beloved individuals but the senseless nature of the violence that took their lives.
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Final Thoughts: A Life Remembered
Robin Kaye’s tragic passing serves as a sombre reminder of how fragile life can be. As the music world reels from this unexpected loss, it is clear that her influence will live on in every performance she helped guide and every show she helped shape.
From crafting the soundtrack of reality TV to mentoring the next generation of talent, Robin Kaye left behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who was Robin Kaye?
Ans: Robin Kaye was a veteran music supervisor who worked on over 200 episodes of American Idol. Her career in the industry spanned over 25 years.
Q: What happened to Robin Kaye and Thomas DeLuca?
Ans: They were found dead in their Encino home from apparent gunshot wounds. Police believe the suspect, Raymond Boodarian, may have been attempting a burglary.
Q: Who is Raymond Boodarian?
Ans: Boodarian is a 22-year-old man from Encino who has been arrested in connection with the double homicide.
Q: What has ‘American Idol’ said about Robin Kaye’s death?
Ans: The show issued a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of a beloved team member and extended its condolences to Kaye’s family and friends.
