Tragic Homicide of Music Supervisor Robin Kaye and Husband
Robin Kaye, the longtime music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, musician Thomas Deluca, were found fatally shot in their upscale Encino home on Monday, July 14, following a welfare check by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers.
Discovery and Victims
The couple, both aged 70, had not been heard from for several days. Concerned acquaintances requested a wellness check, prompting officers to gain entry around 2:30 p.m. via a shattered window and discover the bodies, each with multiple gunshot wounds to the head—Kaye in the pantry, Deluca in the bathroom.
Crime Scene & Suspect Arrest
Authorities believe the killings occurred Thursday, July 10, when a suspect scaled the property’s fence and entered through an unlocked door. Despite earlier reports that day of trespassing, security features and walls deterred immediate police entry. Surveillance footage identified 22‑year‑old Raymond Boodarian as the intruder; he remained inside during the couple’s return, leading to a violent confrontation before fleeing on foot.
LAPD, aided by the FBI, arrested Boodarian on July 15 without incident. He is being held without bail pending formal charges, which are expected from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office as soon as Thursday.
Investigation and Forensics
At Boodarian’s residence, investigators recovered a handgun believed to be the murder weapon, which will undergo forensic testing. Police currently see no evidence linking him personally to the victims beyond the burglary, and motive remains undetermined.
Honoring Robin Kaye
Kaye had been integral to American Idol since 2009, supervising music on almost 300 episodes and helping artists secure high-profile song clearances. She also contributed to Lip Sync Battle, The Singing Bee, and several Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants.
Colleagues paid tribute:
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American Idol called Kaye “a cornerstone of the Idol family,” expressing devastation and extending deepest condolences.
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Vocal coach Didi Benami remembered her as “one of the kindest souls I’ve ever had the privilege of working with.”
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Randy Jackson praised her for “meticulously ensuring songs were placed and cleared for the show” and for being “truly one of a kind.”
The Couple’s Legacy
Beyond her work on Idol, Kaye founded SyncroniCity and represented major artists including Andrea Bocelli and Kenny Loggins. Deluca began his career in Nashville, released the album Street Rock in 2022, and collaborated with notable acts like Meredith Brooks and Kid Rock.
Public Safety & Investigation
The case has garnered attention over the initial police response, since officers had previously been called to the property but found no evidence to enter—despite security cameras capturing Boodarian entering. Authorities urge homeowners to secure all entry points and deploy surveillance systems, noting these helped identify the suspect.
What’s Next
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Motive: LAPD continues to investigate potential motives or connections between Boodarian and the victims.
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Forensics: Ballistics results on the recovered firearm are pending.
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Charges: Formal charges expected by Thursday, July 17, ahead of arraignment.
In Memoriam
Robin Kaye’s contributions left a lasting impact on music supervision, competition television, and countless artists. Together with Thomas Deluca, they stood as a beloved couple remembered for their warmth, professionalism, and artistic passion. Their tragic passing underscores the unpredictable dangers of random violence—leaving family, friends, and the Idol community grieving and seeking answers.
