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Grammy‑Nominated Baritone Jubilant Sykes Found Stabbed in Santa Monica; Son Arrested

Liam Quinn|People
02:44 PM, 12/10/2025
Grammy‑Nominated Baritone Jubilant Sykes Found Stabbed in Santa Monica; Son Arrested
Michael Buckner/GettyJubilant Sykes

Jubilant Sykes, 71, a Grammy‑nominated baritone, was found fatally stabbed in his Santa Monica home after police responded to a reported assault. His 31‑year‑old son, Micah, was arrested at the scene and booked on suspicion of homicide; he is being held on $2,000,000 bail. Authorities recovered a weapon and described the attack as an isolated domestic incident while the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office reviews the case.

Jubilant Sykes, a celebrated 71-year-old baritone and Grammy-nominated opera singer, was found dead with multiple stab wounds in his Santa Monica home after officers responded to a reported assault Monday night, according to a Santa Monica Police Department press release issued Tuesday, Dec. 9.

Police located Sykes inside the residence and also found his 31-year-old son, Micah Sykes, who was described by authorities as "the suspect." Micah was taken into custody at the scene without incident and has been booked on suspicion of homicide, Los Angeles County booking records show. He is being held on $2,000,000 bail while the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office reviews the investigation to determine whether formal charges will be filed.

Authorities said a weapon was recovered at the scene and characterized the incident as a domestic matter that appears isolated, with "no ongoing threat to the community." The case remains under active investigation as prosecutors review evidence and next steps.

Career and Legacy

Sykes enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a baritone. He earned a Grammy nomination for his contribution to a 2009 recording of Leonard Bernstein's Mass and performed at renowned venues such as the Metropolitan Opera, Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center.

His official biography credits collaborations with high-profile artists including Julie Andrews, Josh Groban, Carlos Santana and Brian Wilson. He and his wife, Cecilia, raised three sons.

Note: Details are based on the Santa Monica Police Department press release and Los Angeles County jail records. The investigation is ongoing and information may change as prosecutors review the case.

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