Longtime Industry Veteran and Beloved Figure Remembered by American Idol Family and Artists
The entertainment world is reeling from the tragic news of the apparent double homicide of Robin Kaye, a longtime and highly respected music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca. The couple was discovered deceased at their Encino home on Monday, July 14, 2025, with Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirming an ongoing homicide investigation.
A Devastating Loss for the American Idol Family
American Idol issued a heartfelt statement via a spokesperson to The Hollywood Reporter, expressing profound grief: “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.”
Kaye had been an integral part of American Idol since 2009, serving as the music supervisor responsible for clearing all songs featured or performed on the show. Her expertise and dedication were crucial, notably instrumental in securing the rights for Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love” for Adam Lambert’s iconic performance in Season 8.
Investigation Underway in Encino
LAPD officers responded to a welfare check request at a residence on White Oak Avenue in Encino on Monday around 2:30 p.m. Upon entering the home, they discovered a male and female couple with apparent gunshot wounds. Paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department declared them dead at the scene.
While the LAPD spokesman could not officially confirm the identities of the deceased at the time of the statement, TMZ was the first to report them as Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca. The police confirmed that a homicide investigation is actively underway, though no suspects or arrests have been announced in connection with the double murder.
A Storied Career in the Music Industry
Robin Kaye’s career in the music industry was extensive and impactful. Beyond American Idol, her music supervisor credits include popular shows like Lip Sync Battle, After the Sunset, The Singing Bee, and Q’Viva!: The Chosen.
She began her journey on the record company and artist management side, working with legendary country artist Waylon Jennings in Nashville, followed by a stint in artist development at MTM Records. Kaye then moved into film and TV licensing departments, first at MCA-Universal Records and later heading the music licensing division at PolyGram Records.
In 2000, Kaye established her own company, SyncroniCity, where she represented a diverse roster of acclaimed artists including Andrea Bocelli, Kenny Loggins, Lang Lang, Donny Osmond, and Steven Bishop. This venture ultimately led her into the field of music supervision. Her impressive portfolio also included music supervision for various editions of the Miss Universe pageant and the NAACP Image Awards.
Thomas Deluca, Kaye’s husband, was a talented songwriter and musician. His last album, Street Rock, was released in 2022.
Tributes Pour in from Former Idol Contestants
The news of Kaye’s passing has deeply impacted the American Idol community, with former contestants sharing their fond memories and grief.
Colton Dixon, a finalist from Season 11, expressed his devastation to The Hollywood Reporter: “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.”
Scott MacIntyre, a Season 8 contestant, also shared his appreciation: “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.”
The sudden and tragic loss of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca leaves a significant void in the entertainment industry and in the hearts of those who knew and worked with them.