The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Robin Kaye, a respected music supervisor known for her influential work on American Idol and other major television productions. Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were found deceased in their Encino home earlier this week, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
Authorities have confirmed that an investigation is currently underway. While law enforcement continues to examine the circumstances surrounding their passing, officials have not released any additional information regarding potential suspects or motives.
Who Was Robin Kaye?
Robin Kaye was a well-known figure in the American music and television industries. As a music supervisor, her work contributed to shaping the soundtracks of some of the most beloved television programs of the past two decades, including American Idol, which has launched the careers of artists such as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Jennifer Hudson.
Music supervisors like Kaye play a vital role in television production. They are responsible for selecting, licensing, and coordinating songs and compositions that enhance emotional moments and define the tone of each episode. Colleagues in the industry have described Kaye as meticulous, creative, and deeply passionate about her craft.
In addition to her work in television, she also contributed to various film and commercial projects, earning a reputation as a trusted collaborator and mentor to up-and-coming music professionals.
Discovery at the Encino Residence
According to an official LAPD statement, officers responded to a welfare check at a private residence in Encino, California, on Monday morning. The request reportedly came from family members who had been unable to reach the couple for several days.
Upon arrival, responding officers conducted a preliminary search of the property after noticing signs that prompted concern. After entering the home, police discovered two deceased individuals later identified as Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca.
Authorities confirmed that both were pronounced deceased at the scene. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office has taken over the case to determine the official cause and manner of death. As of this writing, no further details have been made public regarding the ongoing investigation.
LAPD’s Official Investigation
The LAPD’s Valley Bureau Homicide Division is currently leading the investigation. Detectives are working in coordination with forensic teams and the coroner’s office to gather evidence and establish a timeline of events.
While early media reports have mentioned that law enforcement is treating the situation as a double homicide investigation, police have not publicly confirmed any specific conclusions about the nature of the incident. Officials emphasized that no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been identified at this stage.
An LAPD spokesperson stated that the department’s priority is “to ensure a thorough and accurate investigation that provides answers to the families involved and the community.”
The agency also urged the public and media outlets to refrain from spreading speculation until verified information becomes available.
Community Shock and Tributes
The news of Robin Kaye’s passing has deeply affected colleagues, friends, and fans across the entertainment community. Those who worked with her in the music and television industries have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of her professionalism and kindness.
Producers and artists from American Idol expressed their sorrow, remembering Kaye as a behind-the-scenes force who helped shape the emotional rhythm of the show through music selection and creative coordination.
One colleague described her as “the heartbeat of every production she worked on,” highlighting her ability to connect artists, producers, and audiences through music. Others praised her mentorship, recalling how she supported young talent breaking into the industry.
Remembering Her Legacy in Television and Music
Robin Kaye’s legacy extends far beyond her professional accomplishments. She was part of a generation of music supervisors who helped define the sound and storytelling of modern television.
Her approach to music curation blended artistic intuition with technical expertise — ensuring that every song played in a scene amplified the emotional narrative without overshadowing it. For a series like American Idol, which celebrates musical talent, her behind-the-scenes work played a crucial role in creating memorable moments for contestants and viewers alike.
Beyond television, Kaye also worked on independent music projects and collaborations with emerging artists. She was known for her deep respect for all genres — from pop and country to R&B and soul — and for her ability to discover songs that resonated with broad audiences.
The Life and Career of Thomas Deluca
While much of the public attention has centered on Kaye’s contributions to entertainment, her husband, Thomas Deluca, was also deeply respected in his own professional circles.
Though Deluca maintained a more private profile, those close to the couple described him as supportive, kind, and equally passionate about the arts and community engagement. Friends and neighbors in Encino have shared that the couple were well-liked and often involved in local cultural initiatives.
Their partnership was seen as one rooted in shared values — creativity, compassion, and commitment to their work and community.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
The LAPD continues to encourage anyone with information related to the case to contact the Valley Bureau Homicide Division. Officials have reiterated that the investigation is still in its early stages and that verified information will be shared through official channels when available.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office is conducting autopsies to confirm the cause and manner of death. The results are expected to guide the next phase of the investigation.
At this time, no further public statements have been issued by family representatives. Authorities have asked for privacy on behalf of the victims’ families as they navigate this difficult period.
A Lasting Impact
As friends and colleagues reflect on Robin Kaye’s life, many point to her profound influence on the next generation of creative professionals. She not only helped bring music to millions of television viewers but also mentored young artists and music coordinators, encouraging them to pursue excellence and authenticity in their work.
Her passing has sparked renewed appreciation for the vital role of music supervisors in shaping entertainment — often unseen by audiences but essential to the emotional experience of film and television.
The legacy of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca lives on through the projects, people, and creative communities they inspired. Their contributions have left an enduring mark on both the entertainment industry and those who had the privilege of knowing them personally.