Who is Robin Kaye? 'American Idol' dedicates Season 24 to her legacy in emotional tribute
ABC's 'American Idol' is back with Season 24! Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the ongoing season is once again judged by Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood. While the opening episode featured several standout performances that kept viewers glued to their screens, many were left wondering why the show began with a heartfelt tribute dedicated to Robin Kaye.
The episode opened with an onscreen dedication that read, "Season 24 of American Idol: Dedicated to Robin Kaye. We'll save you a seat," honoring her lasting impact on the show. Notably, Kaye was American Idol's music supervisor until her death, overseeing song licensing for contestants. After a career at record labels like MTM, MCA, and PolyGram, she joined the show in 2009 and contributed to over 300 episodes, including several milestones, as per Parade.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she shared how she persuaded Led Zeppelin to allow a cover of 'Whole Lotta Love' for Adam Lambert on 'American Idol' Season 8. She recalled, "I said, 'This is the time to consider it. If you're ever going to try it, this is the time.' I don't know if Robert Plant knew, but his manager did because his kids were big Adam fans. They watched the show in England." Kaye, who earned several accolades, including the Guild of Music Supervisors' award for Best Music Supervision in Reality Television in 2014, was widely respected in the industry.
Talking about her unfortunate demise in July 2025, police conducted a welfare check at Kaye and her husband Tom Deluca's Encino, California, home after reports of no contact for several days. Upon entering, officers discovered the couple's bodies. The LAPD confirmed that Kaye and Deluca died from multiple gunshot wounds. The suspect, 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, has been charged with two counts of murder and one count of first-degree residential burglary, including special circumstance allegations for multiple murders and murder during a burglary, according to Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J Hochman.
If convicted on all charges, Boodarian could face life in prison without parole or the death penalty. Boodarian is currently held in a forensic psychiatric hospital in Bernardino County following several competency hearings, after a December court order committed him to the state hospital. A status update hearing is scheduled for Thursday, March 19, according to the district attorney's office, as per USA Today.
Mourning Kaye's passing, a spokesperson for 'American Idol' said, "We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband, Tom's, passing. 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."
