In a heartfelt salute to a cherished colleague, “American Idol” paid tribute to Robin Kaye, a dedicated music supervisor who tragically lost her life over the summer. Kaye had been an integral part of the show, contributing her expertise for more than ten years.

In July 2025, Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were discovered shot to death in their residence in Encino, California. A suspect has since been apprehended and charged in connection with the murders, leaving a community and industry in mourning.

As “American Idol” commenced its 24th season, the show took a moment to honor Kaye’s memory, reflecting on her significant contributions since the show’s inception in 2002. The season premiere included a poignant tribute card that set the tone for the episode.

Displaying a touching photograph of Kaye, the screen carried a message that resonated with both viewers and those who knew her: “Season 24 of American Idol: Dedicated to Robin Kaye. ‘We’ll save you a seat.'” This dedication underscored the show’s commitment to keeping her spirit alive within the “American Idol” family.

Kaye, who had earned accolades for her work as a music supervisor, was remembered not only for her professional achievements but also for her personal warmth and influence on the show. Her and Deluca’s untimely deaths on July 14 left a void that season 24 seeks to honor through its heartfelt dedication.

Kaye, an award-winning music supervisor on Idol, and her musician husband were found shot dead in their Encino, California, home on July 14.

American Idol paid a moving tribute to Robin Kaye, the show’s music supervisor who was murdered over the summer at her home 

Kaye and her husband Thomas Deluca were both found shot to death in their Encino, California home in July 2025. A suspect has been charged with their murders and is now behind bars

Raymond Boodarian, 22, has been charged with two counts of murder and a count of residential burglary, with the special circumstance allegation of multiple murders and murder during the commission of a burglary.

Prosecutors have claimed Boodarian was burglarizing Kaye and Deluca’s home on July 10, when the couple returned home.

During an ensuing struggle, the 22-year-old allegedly shot and killed the couple – whose bodies were only found four days later after frantic family members requested a welfare check.

Authorities later determined that Deluca passed within seconds of being shot in the head and Kaye died minutes later.

‘The victims returned home while the suspect had gained entry into the residence, and a confrontation ensued, which resulted in the suspect taking their lives,’ authorities previously said, according to People.

‘The victims succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, and the suspect fled from the residence on foot.’

Boodarian was taken into custody just one day after the grisly discovery by policeman with their guns drawn at the rented Reseda townhome he shared with his mother and sister.

Officials have since said the murders appeared to be random, with no connection found between the suspect and the couple, according to People.

Kaye had been working as a music supervisor on the show on-off since it’s debut in 2002 

The award-winning music supervisor pictured in 2015 with singer Micky Dolenz

American Idol returned for season 24 on January 26 with judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan 

But Boodarian has a criminal history as well as a history of mental illness.

In November, a judge ruled that Boodarian was unfit to stand trial. 

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Maria Cavalluzzi declared that Boodarian was ‘not presently competent to stand trial’ as she announced that the murder suspect was being moved to a state facility to treat a ‘psychiatric condition with psychotropic medication,’ The Wrap reports.

‘The defendant lacks the capacity to make decisions regarding psychotropic medication,’ the judge said, arguing that ‘restoration is in the interest of justice, because this is a homicide case.’

Host Ryan Seacrest pictured in 2024

At the time of the deaths, American Idol issued a statement, calling Kaye ‘a cornerstone of the Idol family.’

‘We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband, Tom’s, passing,’ a spokesperson told Daily Mail.

‘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.’