Why American Idol 2026 Honors Robin Kaye: Tribute & Explanation
- American Idol season 24 began with a heartfelt tribute to late music supervisor Robin Kaye after she and her husband were killed in a double homicide last year.
- "Season 24 of American Idol: Dedicated to Robin Kaye," a tribute card read at the top of the premiere episode, which aired on ABC Monday, January 26.
- The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed in July 2025 that Kaye and husband Tom Deluca were found dead in their Encino home from possible gunshot wounds after...
American Idol season 24 began with a heartfelt tribute to late music supervisor Robin Kaye after she and her husband were killed in a double homicide last year.
“Season 24 of American Idol: Dedicated to Robin Kaye,” a tribute card read at the top of the premiere episode, which aired on ABC Monday, January 26. “We’ll save you a seat.'”
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed in July 2025 that Kaye and husband Tom Deluca were found dead in their Encino home from possible gunshot wounds after authorities received a request for a welfare check.
“while there were no signs of forced entry or trouble at the location during that investigation, it is now believed that the suspect had gained entry into the residence through an unlocked door,” an LAPD press release stated at the time. “The victims returned home while the suspect was inside their residence, and a confrontation ensued, which resulted in the suspect taking their lives. The victims succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, and the suspect fled from the residence on foot.”
A death certificate obtained by died on January 23, 2024, following her husband Tom’s passing.She was 64 years old.
### American Idol and Kaye’s Role
Robin Kaye served as a music supervisor on *American Idol* from 2008 until her death, working on more than 300 episodes. Billboard reports that she secured licensing for the songs performed by contestants on the show.Her work was crucial in ensuring the legal use of copyrighted material during the competition.
### Industry Recognition and Condolences
*American Idol* released a statement expressing their sorrow over Kaye’s passing, noting she was a “cornerstone of the *Idol* family” since 2009 and ”truly loved and respected.” American Idol’s Instagram account also shared the news.Kaye’s expertise and dedication were highly valued within the television industry.
### Current status of American Idol
*American Idol* season 24 is scheduled to air on ABC on Mondays at 8 p.m.ET and stream on Hulu the next day. ABC’s official American Idol page confirms the schedule. The show continues production despite the loss of a key member of its team.