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Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘American Idol' Family Mourns Death of Show's Music Supervisor, Robin Kaye
The extended American Idol family is in mourning today at the shocking loss of the series' longtime music supervisor, Robin Kaye, who was found murdered along with her husband Thomas DeLuca in their Encino home on Monday (July 15). With a long history of working at record labels like MTM, MCA and PolyGram, including positions where she licensed music for film and TV, Kaye joined the series in 2009 and is the longest tenured music supervisor in the show's 24-year run. Credited with working on some 300 episodes, she was responsible for clearing thousands of songs for broadcast — from performances by finalists to group numbers to 'home week' themes. More from The Hollywood Reporter Former Avex USA CEO Naoki Osada Launches Global Venture Nebula17 'American Idol' Music Supervisor Robin Kaye and Her Husband Die in Double Homicide; Arrest Made Beyoncé and Jay-Z to Compete Against Each Other for an Emmy This Year Indeed, Kaye was instrumental in convincing Led Zeppelin to allow a cover of 'Whole Lotta Love' to be performed by Adam Lambert on Season 8 — a first for the classic rock band. In a 2009 interview, Kaye shared how she convinced the band's representatives to approve use of the song. '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 was still working on the coming season of Idol at the time of her death. The Hollywood Reporter reached out to many of the contestants who were guided by Kaye during the 16 seasons she served as a member of the production staff. Here are their heartfelt statements – the words 'kind' and 'calm' show up many times in these tributes from those contestants who are devastated by her death. 'Robin was such a huge part of my success on the show. She's the reason I was able to perform 'Falling Slowly' and 'Heartless.' She fought for getting what song I would feel comfortable singing that week cleared. But more than that she was always so understanding and kind. Going through that show was stressful and the people that were understanding and kind behind the scenes made it all OK. Robin was at the top of that list. And it was the same every time I saw her afterward. My heart goes out to her and her husbands' families.' – Kris Allen, Season 8 winner 'I met many amazing people during my time on American Idol, but Robin always stood out as someone I immediately bonded with. She treated me like a son almost immediately. She was caring and understanding of the stresses of the show, especially with choosing a song. She made each conversation with me feel important. I'm so lucky to have been able to return to Idol last year to promote the Broadway Show A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical. Robin was the first person to text me to tell me how happy she was to have me back, and she went right to work to figure out what songs I would be doing. She will be missed. This is truly an unthinkable tragedy.' – Nick Fradiani, Season 14 winner and star of 'I had the absolute pleasure of working closely with Robin during my time on American Idol. It felt like we spoke almost daily, as she was such a key part of the experience. We used to laugh because she'd always catch me trying to dodge her for a few extra minutes after a performance, especially when she was already asking what I was going to sing next week, sometimes just moments after finding out I made it through to the next round. That was Robin: sharp, quick, always 10 steps ahead, but always leading with care and doing everything she could to guide and support us through such a wild, life-changing time. Robin was such an impactful part of my Idol journey, and I credit so much of my growth on the show to her. She pushed me, motivated me, and helped shape me into the artist I am today. She was a real advocate, especially for artists like me who didn't always fit the typical mold. She made you feel seen and respected while always keeping it real. I feel really grateful I saw Robin recently at this past season's Idol finale and was able to tell her I loved and missed her. We hugged, caught up, and celebrated the historic win of Jamal, the first black male winner since Ruben Studdard. As a black singer myself, I'll always remember how Robin treated me with respect, love, and unwavering encouragement. She played a huge role in my journey, and I'll forever be thankful for her kindness and support. My heart breaks knowing her husband was also taken in this senseless tragedy. I'm sending my deepest condolences to their family, their loved ones, and my Idol family. Hollywood will feel a little dimmer without her.' – Rayvon Owen, Season 14 'I am incredibly saddened to hear the horrific news about Robin Kaye and her husband's tragic murder. Working with Robin on the show was a true pleasure. She had a calming spirit with such kind and compassionate eyes. She talked to me as if she were a friend or family member that I'd known my whole life. She worked hard to help make my dreams (and so many others) come true by getting approval of songs that I deeply connected with so that I could perform them on Idol. (Including getting full approval from Robert Plant and Jimmy Page to do Led Zeppelin's 'What Is and What Should Never Be.' I remember the feeling of being in her presence like it was yesterday. I'm so grateful to have shared that special time with her. May she and her husband rest in peace.' – Haley Reinhart, Season 10 'My family and I are heartbroken over the loss of Robin Kaye. She was a genuine advocate for the artists, someone who truly cared. Her heart was always in the right place, and she remained a friend long after the show ended. Robin championed me all the way through the top 10, and her belief in my artistry helped bring my performance of so many songs, including [Katy Perry's] 'Unconditionally,' to life. That moment was powerful, not just because of the song, but because Robin stood behind it. J-Lo loved how I arranged the song and Robin supported that. That memory means the world to me, and I owe it in large part to Robin's vision and support. She wasn't just a remarkable music supervisor, but a quiet force behind some of Idol's most iconic moments, and a truly beautiful soul. Robin had that rare ability to make artists feel seen and valued, not just as performers, but as people. Her kindness, her insight, and her steadfast encouragement shaped careers and lifted spirits. She will be missed more than words can say. Thank you, Robin, for believing. For caring. For giving so much of yourself. Your legacy lives on in the music, and in all of us who had the privilege of knowing you.' – Olivia Rox, Season 15 'Although we haven't been in touch in recent years, I remember Robin as being incredibly kind and supportive during my time on Idol. She worked tirelessly to help us get our songs cleared and was such an essential part of the show behind the scenes. Her presence and dedication will be deeply missed.' – Pia Toscano, Season 10 'Every week when we went to the producers to sing our song choice for the next show, Robin was our shining light. You'd look around the room singing your heart out and meet the eyes of these legendary producers who've heard every contestant from Carrie Underwood to Adam Lambert. You were giving your best and it was their job to punch holes in it. You couldn't help but feel intimidated. It was necessary, but terrifying! And then you'd meet Robin's eyes. This beautiful beacon of light sitting near the door with her notepad. No matter what, she would always be smiling, and her eyebrows lifted as if to say, 'You're doing great! Keep going! I love this song!' Although she's gone, that smile will live with me forever.' – Clark Beckham, Season 14 'Robin wasn't just a music supervisor, but a friend. While she suggested song choices and gave advice to me on American Idol, what I appreciated even more about her was that she took the time to schedule calls with me long after I was on the show. We would text, and we talked about different paths I could potentially take to remain in the music world while establishing a sustainable career. She didn't have to do that, but she took the time for me and did it anyway. I always had musical conversations with her while on Idol. Several times, it was her song suggestion that kept me on the show during major elimination rounds. There need to be more people like Robin, and I'm truly shocked to hear this news. I can't fathom the amount of hatred in your heart you have to have to take the lives of such sweet people.' – Jessica Meuse, Season 13 'I'm absolutely devastated to hear the news about my friend Robin. Though I shouldn't play favorites, Robin was always a highlight during my time on American Idol. She was quick to listen and always fought for what the artist wanted. She helped make my time on the show an unforgettable experience.' – Colton Dixon, Season 11 'I will always remember Robin as one of the calmest, kindest presences on set. She was a true master of music clearance – thoughtful, persistent and deeply respected in her field. I'll never forget that she got [Fleetwood Mac's] 'Rhiannon' cleared for me – a song that had never been approved on American Idol before. That moment was incredibly special to me, and it wouldn't have happened without her. Years after the show, I had dinner with Robin and her husband at their old house in Toluca Lake. It was a beautiful, peaceful place, and they were such warm, gracious hosts. I remember how much they both loved music, how Robin lit up when we met their parrot, and how easy it was to feel at home in their presence. It was one of those evenings that stays with you. I'm in shock, gutted, and utterly heartbroken. Robin and her husband were gentle, good souls — the kind of people who wouldn't hurt anyone. They didn't deserve this. My heart goes out to their families and loved ones, and I truly hope justice is found.' – Didi Benami, Season 9 'Robin was great at her job. As a blind person, there were always some extra considerations for me to work through when I needed to get a hold of music or quickly research new songs to perform. Robin made that process as easy as possible for me and was always willing to go the extra mile. She helped me and a lot of others on our musical journeys.' – Scott MacIntyre, Season 8 'Robin was such a sweet woman. I remember being touched by her calm voice and warmth. We talked on a weekly basis during my time on Idol. Because of Robin I was able to showcase one of my favorite songs, 'Somos Novios' [the Spanish version of the Perry Como hit 'It's Impossible'], which wasn't originally on the list of cleared songs. But she fought for that and made it happen. Had it not been for Robin, I wouldn't have been able to take the risk of singing Beyoncé in Spanish. But Robin found a way to clear 'Oye,' the Spanish version of 'Listen' from the movie Dreamgirls. After going years without speaking, I had the pleasure of working with her last year when I was asked to be a vocal coach for the most stressful part of the audition process – Hollywood Week. Robin still had the same calm and warm energy our team needed to make sure we could do our jobs smoothly, so the contestants could showcase the songs they wanted. I'm grateful for knowing her and hope to leave an impression like she did. I don't know anyone that could say anything bad about her or her character. She will be missed and she will be celebrated for the ways in which she encouraged those around her.' – Devin Velez, Season 12 'Most of our interactions were about the songs I wanted to sing on the show. She was always really sweet, accommodating and humble. She always tried her best to get the songs that we wanted to sing cleared, but if she got a 'no,' she would work quickly to find alternatives for us. I'm shocked by her passing. It is a tragic loss for the entire Idol family.' – Danny Gokey, Season 8 Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick were executive producers of American Idol when Kaye joined the production staff. 'Robin was a joy to work with,' Lythgoe tells The Hollywood Reporter. 'If there was a piece of music that she couldn't get permission to use she would have numerous other ideas to offer the contestant.'Adds Warwick: 'Robin was a pleasure to work with. She always kept a cool head in a job that was difficult and manic. She never ceased to deliver and no matter what the stress of a weekly live television show, and she always had a friendly and pleasant demeanor. My heart goes out to her family, she will be truly missed.'The ABC-TV series issued an official statement about Kaye's death: '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.' With additional reporting by Michele Angermiller Best of The Hollywood Reporter From 'Party in the U.S.A.' to 'Born in the U.S.A.': 20 of America's Most Patriotic (and Un-Patriotic) Musical Offerings Most Anticipated Concert Tours of 2025: Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar & SZA, Sabrina Carpenter and More Hollywood's Most Notable Deaths of 2025
Business Wire
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
AM Best Assigns Credit Ratings to MTM Assurance Ltd.
BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has assigned a Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of 'bbb+' (Good) to MTM Assurance Ltd. (MTM) (Barbados). The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect MTM's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management. MTM is a niche insurer operating out of Barbados where it provides revenue loss reinsurance for a limited number of financial services industry partners, which are primarily located in the Canadian market. AM Best's balance sheet strength assessment of very strong is supported by the company's risk-adjusted capitalization being at the strongest level, as measured by Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). MTM's capital is accreted through its retained earnings with an offset to its projected growth of modest dividends paid up to its shareholders. The company has good liquidity with approximately one fifth of its invested assets held in cash and short-term fixed investments. However, about two thirds of investments are private loans, which elevates balance sheet asset risk. With its limited claims experience, MTM's operating results have been robust for fiscal-year 2024 and near-term results indicate a continuation of this trend. Management maintains strong oversight of operations and has extensive knowledge of its business segment, which contributes to the company's operating stability. In coordination with a third party, the company has developed a process for risk identification, documentation and reporting, as well as for modeling and pricing risk management. This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best's Credit Ratings, Best's Performance Assessments, Best's Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best's Ratings & Assessments.
The Hindu
04-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
T.N.'s health sector: feats and challenges
The story so far: Tamil Nadu has consistently ranked high in the health sector. A robust public health system, 11,000+ institutions at the primary, secondary and tertiary care levels and scores of pioneering schemes have enabled the State to stay ahead in many of its key health indicators. Despite such achievements, the State's health sector is in the midst of a brewing crisis — a crisis fueled by a high number of vacancies, a strained workforce, and a lackadaisical attitude towards long-pending demands of doctors. How has T.N. healthcare fared so far? Over the years, the State has made significant strides in expanding its health infrastructure and improving health outcomes through focussed initiatives and innovative programmes, while prioritising core areas of maternal and child health, and prevention and control of infectious diseases. In particular, it has scaled up interventions targeting non-communicable diseases. Its flagship scheme, 'Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam' (MTM), has taken screening and drug delivery for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension to people's doorsteps, while community-based cancer screening programmes have also taken off. Moreover, the Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation streamlines drug procurement and supply for government hospitals; the Transplant Authority of Tamil Nadu (formerly Cadaver Transplant Programme) regulates the process of organ allocation and maintenance of wait lists; and the Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Maternity Benefit Scheme provides financial assistance and nutritional support to pregnant women belonging to economically and socially disadvantaged sections. Schemes such as the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme have enabled better access to healthcare, especially for advanced procedures and surgeries such as organ transplants for the poor. What gains have been made? Such focussed measures have enabled the State to steadily bring down its maternal and infant mortality numbers. As per the State's Health Management Information System, the Maternal Mortality Ratio stands at 39.4 per 1,00,000 live births (2024-2025), a dip from 45.5 in 2023-2024, while the Infant Mortality Rate fell from 8.2 per 1,000 live births (2023-2024) to 7.7 in 2024-2025. The under-five mortality rate has also declined from 8.9 (2023-2024) to 8.2 during 2024-2025. On its part, the MTM has demonstrated an improvement in the management of hypertension and diabetes in the State. Among adults with hypertension, the proportion with blood pressure control rose to 17% (previously 7.3%), while among those with diabetes, the proportion with blood sugar control rose to 16.7% (previously 10.8%) respectively. These achievements are the outcomes of a resilient healthcare system that was built brick by brick over decades and stood the test of time during the COVID-19 pandemic. But certain deficiencies have surfaced in the State's public health sector, stemming from failures in addressing the needs of its workforce. What are the unmet needs and gaps? Despite exponential growth in terms of health infrastructure, there has been no proportionate expansion in the workforce. Delay in filling up vacant posts (across different levels) and lack of new posts' creation have left a dent in the sector. The health sector, including at the primary care level, is running the show by redeploying/diverting doctors and staff nurses to various facilities. A crucial cadre of T.N.'s public health system are its Village Health Nurses (VHN), who play a vital role in maternal and child healthcare. As per the latest official data, 2,013 posts of VHNs (of the 8,713 sanctioned) and 1,251 posts of Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (of the 2,057 sanctioned) are lying vacant. There has been an inordinate delay in filling the vacant posts due to legal issues. VHNs spearhead antenatal care, delivery services, post-natal follow-up and immunisation. Instead of serving one village (population of 5,000 to 6,000 as per norms), each VHN is now covering at least two to three villages each. Facing an acute crisis, they have been rising concerns about falling behind in maternal and child healthcare services. On the other hand, there is a growing concern about the shortage and skewed distribution of specialists in the State. Government doctors have been asking for an increase in their workforce as per patient strength, according to norms prescribed by Indian Public Health Standards. Many of them note that there is a huge rise in patient inflow to government hospitals, but no commensurate rise in staffing. In the last four years, the State recruited some 3,500-odd medical officers to its primary healthcare (point of entry) but is yet to address specialist shortfalls at the secondary and tertiary care levels. In particular, there is a huge deficit in super speciality cadre such as for cardiothoracic surgery and vascular surgery. Additionally, contractual recruitments and proposed models for public private partnership in service delivery, such as for haemodialysis, are facing stiff opposition among the existing workforce. For a State like Tamil Nadu, which takes pride in its advanced health infrastructure, a discontent and stretched workforce is detrimental in many ways. It could affect performance, patient outcomes, and public trust.
The Australian
26-06-2025
- Business
- The Australian
MTM raising $50m to advance FJH tech
MTM secures firm commitments from domestic and international investors for $50m placement Support endorses progress in becoming a US-centric clean technology company Funding will progress FJH demonstration plant, secure and prepare up to four US operational sites Special Report: Investors have demonstrated their strong support for MTM Critical Metals' US-centric clean tech strategy by backing a $50m placement at 55c per share. Firm commitments have been received from high-conviction domestic and international investors for the two-tranche placement, which is at an 11% premium to the 20-day volume weighted average price. This reflects growing institutional recognition of MTM Critical Metal's (ASX:MTM) transition into an industrial technology company and confidence in the commercial potential of its proprietary Flash Joule Heating (FJH) platform for metal recovery and mineral processing. MTM managing director Michael Walshe said the support from institutions was a clear endorsement of the company's progress to date and its ambition to become a leading US-based clean technology platform. 'The addition of major institutions to our register sends a strong message: this is high-conviction capital backing a clear strategy with real momentum,' he added. 'With institutional alignment and capital in place, MTM is moving at speed to realise the commercial potential of FJH and build a scalable, first-mover platform in critical metals recovery. We're not just proving the tech, we're now building the business. 'With high-grade feedstock secured and commissioning underway, MTM is now positioned to deliver commercial output from US soil within 12 months.' Watch: MTM signs a MoU with Meteoric Resources Advancing operations Proceeds from the placement will provide MTM with the funds to advance several objectives. For starters, it will allow the company to commission its 1 tonne-per-day FJH demonstration plant in Texas that will prove the technology's ability to recover gallium and germanium – minerals valued for their use in manufacturing semi-conductors – from e-waste. MTM will also be able to secure and prepare up to four US operational sites for modular, build-own-operate metal recovery units as well as establish long-term feedstock procurement arrangements across high-grade e-waste, Ga/Ge refinery scrap and REE concentrates. Additionally, the funding will enable the company to expand its internal technical, engineering and commercial teams while deepening engagement with US federal programs targeting critical minerals supply chain resilience. The first tranche of the placement for $24m will be issued under the company's remaining placement capacity under ASX listing rules 7.1 and 7.1A, while shareholder approval will be sought at a general meeting on or around August 7, 2025, for the second tranche of shares to raise the remaining $26m. The company is also advancing its rebrand into Metallium to align with its US industrial technology positioning. This article was developed in collaboration with MTM Critical Metals, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing. This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.
Herald Sun
26-06-2025
- Business
- Herald Sun
Institutional investors back MTM with $50m to advance US critical metals aspirations
Don't miss out on the headlines from Stockhead. Followed categories will be added to My News. MTM secures firm commitments from domestic and international investors for $50m placement Support endorses progress in becoming a US-centric clean technology company Funding will progress FJH demonstration plant, secure and prepare up to four US operational sites Special Report: Investors have demonstrated their strong support for MTM Critical Metals' US-centric clean tech strategy by backing a $50m placement at 55c per share. Firm commitments have been received from high-conviction domestic and international investors for the two-tranche placement, which is at an 11% premium to the 20-day volume weighted average price. This reflects growing institutional recognition of MTM Critical Metal's (ASX:MTM) transition into an industrial technology company and confidence in the commercial potential of its proprietary Flash Joule Heating (FJH) platform for metal recovery and mineral processing. MTM managing director Michael Walshe said the support from institutions was a clear endorsement of the company's progress to date and its ambition to become a leading US-based clean technology platform. 'The addition of major institutions to our register sends a strong message: this is high-conviction capital backing a clear strategy with real momentum,' he added. 'With institutional alignment and capital in place, MTM is moving at speed to realise the commercial potential of FJH and build a scalable, first-mover platform in critical metals recovery. We're not just proving the tech, we're now building the business. 'With high-grade feedstock secured and commissioning underway, MTM is now positioned to deliver commercial output from US soil within 12 months.' Watch: MTM signs a MoU with Meteoric Resources Advancing operations Proceeds from the placement will provide MTM with the funds to advance several objectives. For starters, it will allow the company to commission its 1 tonne-per-day FJH demonstration plant in Texas that will prove the technology's ability to recover gallium and germanium – minerals valued for their use in manufacturing semi-conductors – from e-waste. MTM will also be able to secure and prepare up to four US operational sites for modular, build-own-operate metal recovery units as well as establish long-term feedstock procurement arrangements across high-grade e-waste, Ga/Ge refinery scrap and REE concentrates. Additionally, the funding will enable the company to expand its internal technical, engineering and commercial teams while deepening engagement with US federal programs targeting critical minerals supply chain resilience. The first tranche of the placement for $24m will be issued under the company's remaining placement capacity under ASX listing rules 7.1 and 7.1A, while shareholder approval will be sought at a general meeting on or around August 7, 2025, for the second tranche of shares to raise the remaining $26m. The company is also advancing its rebrand into Metallium to align with its US industrial technology positioning. This article was developed in collaboration with MTM Critical Metals, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing. This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions. Originally published as Institutional investors back MTM with $50m to advance US critical metals aspirations
