SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Celebrated Grammy-nominated baritone Jubilant Sykes, whose rich voice graced opera stages and concert halls worldwide, was stabbed to death Monday night inside his Santa Monica residence. His 31-year-old son, Micah Sykes, has been arrested on suspicion of murder, police confirmed Tuesday.
Santa Monica Police Department officers were dispatched to the upscale coastal neighborhood shortly after receiving a 911 call reporting an assault with a deadly weapon in progress. Upon arrival, first responders discovered the 71-year-old singer suffering from multiple critical stab wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, Sykes was pronounced dead at the scene.
Micah Sykes, who was still inside the home, was taken into custody without resistance. A knife believed to be the murder weapon was recovered by investigators. As of Tuesday afternoon, authorities had not released a possible motive, and it remains unclear whether the suspect has retained legal counsel. The investigation is active and ongoing.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Jubilant Sykes earned widespread acclaim for his versatility and magnetic stage presence. He received a 2010 Grammy nomination for Best Classical Album for his portrayal of the Celebrant in Leonard Bernstein’s Mass. Earlier in his career, he appeared as Jake in the Metropolitan Opera’s landmark 1990 production of Porgy and Bess.
Critics frequently praised his charisma; a 2008 New York Times review of a Mass performance described him as “radiant and commanding.” Sykes himself once told NPR in 2002, “My singing is like breathing — it’s an extension of me… It’s my passion.”
In recent years, he served as artistic advisor to Orchestra Santa Monica, where he both performed and narrated concerts. Following news of his death, the orchestra’s music director Roger Kalia issued a statement: “Jubilant was a true inspiration — his artistry, generosity, and kindness touched countless lives.”
The tight-knit Santa Monica arts community and Sykes’ many admirers across the classical and crossover music worlds are reeling from the sudden and violent loss of one of Los Angeles’ most beloved vocal talents.