The entertainment world has been left in shock after the tragic deaths of longtime American Idol executive Robin Kaye and her husband Thomas Deluca, both aged 70, were discovered in their Los Angeles mansion earlier this week.
What was meant to be just another quiet afternoon in their upscale neighborhood turned into a nightmare no one could have imagined.
Suspect in Custody After Fatal Home Intrusion
On Tuesday, LAPD arrested 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, who is now accused of killing the couple during what authorities say was a botched burglary.
According to investigators, Boodarian had no known connection to the victims and is believed to have entered the property on July 10 without forcing his way in—apparently through an unlocked entry point.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured him inside the property about 30 minutes before Kaye and Deluca returned home.
Police say a struggle broke out when the couple found him there, leading to both being fatally shot.
Missed Opportunity for Rescue Raises Questions
In a chilling twist, it’s been revealed that two calls were made to police on the day of the crime, warning of a possible burglary.
Officers did respond, but after finding no signs of forced entry and being unable to enter the heavily secured home, they eventually left without action.
It wasn’t until four days later, during a welfare check, that police broke in by smashing a back window—only to find the couple had been shot in the head.
Blood at the front entrance had hinted at what was waiting inside.
Neighborhood in Shock Over Violence in Elite Enclave
The crime has sent shockwaves through the affluent Los Angeles neighborhood, where witnesses told reporters they had seen a man, possibly armed, jumping a fence the night of the incident.
The couple’s home, worth $5 million, had once belonged to late rapper Juice WRLD and had also been used as a rental before Kaye and Deluca purchased it in January 2023.
American Idol Pays Tribute to a Beloved Colleague
American Idol released a heartfelt statement in memory of Robin Kaye, who served as the show’s music supervisor for over 15 seasons.
“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.
We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband Tom’s passing.”
Kaye wasn’t just an industry name—she was widely respected and awarded, winning multiple honors from the Guild of Music Supervisors.
Her passion for her often-overlooked profession was clear in interviews, where she championed the power of music in television and film.
A Legacy That Reaches Far Beyond One Show
Beyond American Idol, Robin’s influence was far-reaching.
She contributed her expertise to shows like Lip Sync Battle, Hollywood Game Night, Miss USA, and even the NAACP Image Awards.
Her work touched every corner of the entertainment industry, often behind the scenes but always essential.
A Musical Life Cut Short
Thomas Deluca, her husband, was a talented musician in his own right.
His career spanned decades, beginning with his 1986 debut album Down To The Wire under Epic Records.
He went on to collaborate with big names like Kid Rock, Molly Hatchet, and Meredith Brooks, and released his latest album Street Rock in 2022.
Investigation Still Unfolding
As the investigation continues, authorities believe Boodarian acted alone and that this was a tragic, isolated incident.
He has not yet entered a plea, and more updates are expected as the case progresses.
The LAPD is still processing evidence and may release further statements in the days ahead.
A Devastating Loss for the Industry and Their Loved Ones
This senseless act of violence has not only robbed the entertainment world of two creative forces but also devastated a network of friends, colleagues, and family members.
As American Idol and fans around the world mourn Robin and Tom’s passing, the spotlight now shifts to ensuring justice is served—and remembering two lives that gave so much to music and storytelling.