“American Idol” judge Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan Talk 2026 season
Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan reveal the stories they had about returning to Season 24, as Lionel Richie reflects the talent of the season 23 star.
LOS ANGELES – Longtime “American Idol” music director Robin Kay and her musician’s husband Tom Delca were found dead in their Southern California home, authorities said.
On July 14th, around 2:30pm, officers conducted a welfare check at their home in Encino, California after reporting that they had not heard from residents for several days. The officer later entered the residence, discovered two bodies, and was later identified as 70-year-old Kay and Delca (70).
The officer was called on July 10th a few days ago due to a “possible suspected robbery at the residence.” However, no mandatory entrances or signs of trouble were found, LAPD said. Investigators now believe the suspect entered the residence that day through an unlocked door, and believe the couple returned to their home while the suspect was still there.
“The suspects took their lives as the conflict continued,” LAPD added. “The victim succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds and the suspect escaped from the residence on foot.”
The suspect, identified as Raymond Boudarian, 22, of Encino, was arrested in connection with the incident. Investigators are determining whether Boudarian has a relationship with the couple and whether Boudarian was involved in past service calls to Encino’s home.
The investigation is ongoing, Los Angeles police added. USA Today contacted the official Los Angeles County defender who previously represented Boudarian for comments.
TMZ first reported the couple’s death.
“The foundation of the idol family since 2009”
A spokesman for “American Idol” confirmed Kay and DeLuca’s death to today’s USA Today on July 15th.
“We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband, Toms, having passed away,” the spokesman said in a statement. “Robin has been the cornerstone of the idol family since 2009 and has been truly loved and respected by everyone who contacted her. Robin will stay in our hearts forever.
Kay began his 16-year stint as the idol’s music director in season 8. This was achieved with Chris Allen as the winner in 2009. She was accompanied by clearing the music for use in competition shows through the recent season 23, crowning Jamal Roberts as the winner on May 18th.
Kaye has received several acclaim, including the Reality Television Award for Best Music Director in 2014.
