Opera singer Jubilant Sykes fatally stabbed in Los Angeles home; son taken into custody.

Jubilant Sykes, a distinguished opera and gospel singer known for his remarkable vocal talent, was tragically found dead in his home in the Los Angeles area on December 8, 2025. He was 71 years old at the time of his passing. Sykes, whose career spanned numerous prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, the Metropolitan Opera, and the Apollo Theater, was also a Grammy nominee, recognized in 2010 for his performance in Leonard Bernstein’s “Mass.”

The Santa Monica Police Department reported that Sykes’s 31-year-old son, Micah Sykes, has been arrested on suspicion of homicide following the incident. Officers responded to the family’s residence on Delaware Avenue around 9:20 PM after receiving a call regarding an assault in progress. Upon arrival, authorities discovered Jubilant Sykes suffering from critical injuries that were consistent with a stabbing. Despite immediate efforts to administer aid, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Micah Sykes was located within the residence and taken into custody without incident.

Investigations are currently underway, with forensic specialists examining a weapon found at the scene along with other evidence. Police indicated that the case will be forwarded to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for review and possible filing of charges. Although the investigation is ongoing, authorities have noted that the incident appears to be isolated, with no substantial information disclosed regarding any potential motive for the alleged crime.

At this time, Micah Sykes remains in custody, with a posted bail amount of million, and he is set to appear in court this Thursday. The tragic circumstances surrounding his father’s death have left many in shock, resonating deeply within the community and the artistic world that celebrated Jubilant Sykes’s significant contributions.

Born in Los Angeles, Sykes had a robust artistic career, sharing the stage with renowned artists such as Julie Andrews, Renée Fleming, and Carlos Santana. His musical contributions extended beyond the concert hall, notably in collaborative projects that highlighted his versatility as a performer.

As news continues to develop, the loss of Sykes serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, particularly for those who dedicate their talents to the arts. In addition to his vocal achievements, Sykes was acclaimed for his unique approach to performance, blending emotional depth with technical skill, a combination that garnered admiration from peers and audiences alike.