Robin Kaye and Husband Die in LA Home Shooting \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Longtime American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were found dead in their Encino home. Both suffered gunshot wounds, and their deaths are being investigated as homicides. Kaye had a respected career in television music production since 2009.
Quick Looks
- Robin Kaye, 70, joined American Idol in 2009
- Her husband, Thomas Deluca, also found deceased
- Both were discovered with gunshot wounds during a welfare check
- LAPD is treating the case as a double homicide
- No suspects have been named or arrested
- Couple owned their Encino, California home
- Kaye’s career included The Singing Bee, Lip Sync Battle, and more
- American Idol praised her legacy and mourned her loss
Deep Look
The entertainment world is in mourning following the tragic deaths of American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband Thomas Deluca, both 70, who were found shot to death in their Los Angeles home Monday afternoon. The couple was discovered during a welfare check conducted by police at their Encino residence, after loved ones reportedly had trouble reaching them. Both victims suffered fatal gunshot wounds, and the Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the case as a double homicide.
As of now, no suspects have been named and no arrests have been made. Authorities remain tight-lipped as they continue their investigation, gathering evidence and conducting interviews to determine what led to the deadly shooting. With no public indication of forced entry or struggle, the incident has raised unsettling questions about who might be responsible and why the couple—known to their community and industry peers as private, kind, and professional—were targeted.
Public records confirm that Kaye and Deluca owned the home in Encino, a suburban neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley known for its quiet streets and celebrity residents. The violent nature of their deaths has left neighbors shocked and grieving, as the investigation draws growing attention from national and entertainment media.
Robin Kaye: A Quiet Force in the Music Industry
Robin Kaye was no household name to viewers, but within the entertainment industry, she was a respected veteran whose behind-the-scenes work shaped some of the most musically iconic moments on television. Kaye began her tenure with American Idol in 2009, helping to curate and manage the music that accompanied the highs and lows of contestants’ journeys. Her role as a music supervisor required a deep knowledge of song licensing, an understanding of tone and audience, and the creativity to match music to emotionally powerful moments in live TV.
In addition to American Idol, Kaye’s career included contributions to a wide range of programming. She worked on NBC’s “Hollywood Game Night,” VH1’s “Lip Sync Battle,” “The Singing Bee,” and musical elements for multiple Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants. Her influence touched millions of viewers, even if they didn’t know her name.
Colleagues describe Kaye as meticulous, passionate, and highly collaborative. “She brought a calm professionalism to every production she worked on,” said one industry peer. “Her instincts were always spot on, and her passion for music made everything she touched more dynamic and memorable.”
The American Idol team issued a heartfelt statement shortly after the news broke, calling Kaye “a cornerstone of the Idol family since 2009,” adding that she was “truly loved and respected by all who came in contact with her.” The statement concluded: “Robin will remain in our hearts forever and we share our deepest sympathy with her family and friends during this difficult time.”
A Crime Without Answers—So Far
While tributes have poured in for Kaye and Deluca, questions about the circumstances of their deaths have remained unanswered. Police have provided only minimal information, confirming the presence of gunshot wounds but withholding further details about the crime scene, potential persons of interest, or motive. They have not stated whether there were signs of forced entry, a struggle, or whether a weapon was recovered at the scene.
The LAPD’s decision to classify the deaths as homicides rather than a murder-suicide signals that investigators believe a third party may be involved. With both victims in their 70s, and no history of public disputes or criminal connections, the tragedy has sparked concern and speculation in the local community and beyond.
Friends, colleagues, and family members have expressed disbelief. Many described the couple as quiet, private, and unlikely to have enemies. Thomas Deluca, although less known publicly, was said to be a supportive figure who often kept a low profile but was deeply involved in his wife’s career.
Industry and Community Reaction
The music and television industries are reeling from the news. On social media, former contestants and production staff from American Idol shared their condolences, many recalling Kaye’s behind-the-scenes support and her role in helping shape their early careers. Fellow music supervisors praised her taste and expertise, noting how seamlessly she navigated the complex and demanding world of live televised music.
Beyond her professional contributions, Kaye was also remembered for her mentorship. Young producers and editors who worked alongside her over the years have spoken out about her kindness and willingness to share knowledge.
In Encino, neighbors expressed disbelief at the violence that unfolded on their typically quiet street. Some said they had interacted with the couple during walks or neighborhood events but never suspected anything was wrong. The welfare check that led to the discovery of their bodies was reportedly prompted by concerned family or friends who had not heard from the couple for several days.
A Call for Justice and Reflection
As the investigation into the double homicide continues, there is a growing call from the entertainment community and the public for justice. Friends and colleagues want answers—not only for the sake of closure but to ensure that whoever is responsible is held accountable.
The sudden loss of Robin Kaye serves as a reminder of the often invisible hands behind major productions—the people who quietly contribute to cultural moments without ever stepping into the spotlight. In her decades-long career, Kaye built a legacy of artistic excellence, integrity, and compassion. Her life ended tragically, but her influence will live on in the shows, artists, and audiences she helped shape.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact the LAPD’s homicide division. For now, those who knew Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca are left with grief, unanswered questions, and memories of a couple who gave so much, only to have their lives taken in the most devastating way.
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