Jubilant Sykes, a renowned Opera singer, was fatally stabbed Monday night (Dec. 8) at his Santa Monica residence. Authorities allege the attacker was his son, 31-year-old Micah Sykes, who was detained at the scene and remains in police custody. The singer was 71.
Santa Monica police responded to the home shortly after 9 p.m. following a 911 call reporting an active assault. The caller, later identified as the singer’s wife, guided officers inside, where they found Sykes with severe stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the property.
Investigators said they located Micah Sykes inside the residence and arrested him without incident. Officials confirmed he will be booked on suspicion of homicide, and the case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration. Detectives recovered a weapon at the home and continue to analyze physical evidence collected from the scene.
Jubilant Sykes Murdered In Santa Monica, Son, Micah Sykes, Arrested
Authorities said early findings suggest the killing was an isolated domestic incident. Santa Monica Police Lt. Lewis Gilmour stated that the investigation remains active as detectives work to establish a detailed timeline and determine motive.
Sykes’ death brings a sudden and devastating end to a distinguished career anchored in artistic risk-taking and vocal excellence. From Los Angeles, Sykes began singing soprano as a child. He later refined his craft at Cal State Fullerton, where faculty encouraged him to pursue classical performance. Though he often said he never envisioned a path in opera, his richly expressive baritone ultimately carried him worldwide.
His résumé included appearances at the Metropolitan Opera, Carnegie Hall, Deutsche Oper Berlin, the Kennedy Center, London’s Barbican Centre, the Apollo Theater, the Hollywood Bowl, and international festivals such as New Orleans Jazz Fest. His acclaimed portrayal of the Celebrant in the 2009 recording of Leonard Bernstein’s Mass earned a Grammy nomination and broadened his reputation as a magnetic interpreter of emotionally complex repertory.
Neighbors remembered Sykes as warm and deeply devoted to his family. Sammy Murphy, a longtime friend, described him as a “good-hearted person” who created a welcoming home. Murphy noted that Sykes was the father of three sons and said one had experienced significant personal struggles.
The investigation continues as the classical and gospel communities mourn a singular voice whose impact crossed genres, traditions, and generations.
Leave a Reply