The American Idol family is grieving the tragic and shocking loss of longtime music supervisor Robin Kaye, who was found murdered alongside her husband, Thomas DeLuca, in their Encino, California home on Monday, July 15.
Kaye, who began working on American Idol in 2009, became one of the most influential figures behind the scenes of the show. Over 16 seasons and more than 300 episodes, she was responsible for securing the rights to thousands of songs performed by contestants. Whether it was individual solos, group numbers, or special “home week” performances, Robin made sure the music was cleared and ready. Her impact helped shape Idol into the cultural phenomenon it is today.
One of Kaye’s most memorable achievements was securing Led Zeppelin’s permission to allow Adam Lambert to perform “Whole Lotta Love” in Season 8 — a major breakthrough, as the band had never allowed one of their songs to be covered on television before. “I don’t know if Robert Plant knew,” she once said, “but his manager did because his kids were big Adam fans.”
Robin Kaye was still actively working on the upcoming season at the time of her passing, making the tragedy even harder for the Idol team to comprehend.
Heartfelt Tributes from American Idol Finalists
In the wake of her death, contestants from multiple American Idol seasons shared emotional tributes to Kaye, repeatedly describing her as “kind,” “calm,” “supportive,” and a true advocate for artists.
Kris Allen, winner of Season 8, called her “a huge part of my success on the show” and remembered how she “fought for getting what song I would feel comfortable singing that week cleared.”
Nick Fradiani, Season 14 winner and current Broadway star, said Kaye “treated me like a son” and was the first person to text him with excitement when he returned to promote A Beautiful Noise. He called her death “truly an unthinkable tragedy.”
Rayvon Owen, also from Season 14, shared how Robin always made him feel seen as a Black artist and pushed him to grow. “She was sharp, quick, and always 10 steps ahead, but always leading with care,” he said.
Haley Reinhart, a standout from Season 10, remembered her calming presence and her role in securing Zeppelin’s “What Is and What Should Never Be” for her performance. “She talked to me as if she were a friend or family member I’d known my whole life.”
Olivia Rox, from Season 15, said Kaye’s support helped bring performances like her cover of Katy Perry’s “Unconditionally” to life. “She wasn’t just a music supervisor, but a quiet force behind some of Idol’s most iconic moments,” she wrote.
Clark Beckham, Season 14 runner-up, remembered her gentle encouragement during nerve-wracking song approval meetings. “Her eyebrows lifted as if to say, ‘You’re doing great!’”
Jessica Meuse, from Season 13, described Robin as a mentor who stayed in touch even after the show, offering guidance on her career path. “Several times, it was her song suggestion that kept me on the show.”
Colton Dixon, from Season 11, shared how she “always fought for what the artist wanted” and made his Idol experience unforgettable.
Pia Toscano, another Season 10 favorite, added that although they hadn’t spoken in recent years, she would always remember Robin as someone “incredibly kind and supportive.”
Robin Kaye wasn’t just a professional behind the scenes — she was a trusted ally and friend to contestants and staff alike. Her work often involved intense negotiations, last-minute changes, and musical creativity, yet she always led with patience and grace.
She played a major role in shaping careers, ensuring that young artists could perform the music they loved, and helping them make emotional connections with viewers. Her sudden and violent death has shaken the American Idol family and left a void that’s difficult to imagine filling.
The Hollywood Reporter previously confirmed that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the double homicide, though details remain limited at this time.
As American Idol prepares for a new season, it will do so without one of its most beloved team members. But Robin Kaye’s legacy — the performances she made possible and the lives she touched — will endure.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter