Grammy-nominated opera singer Jubilant Sykes was found stabbed to death inside his Santa Monica home on Monday evening, with his 31-year-old son now in custody on suspicion of murder. The renowned baritone, who performed at venues including the Metropolitan Opera and Carnegie Hall throughout his decades-long career, was 71 years old.
Officers with the Santa Monica Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting an assault in progress at a residence in the 1700 block of Delaware Avenue around 9:20 p.m. on Dec. 8, 2025. When authorities arrived at the scene, Sykes’ wife was at the door. Police discovered the celebrated singer inside with critical injuries consistent with a stabbing. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
Micah Sykes, the victim’s son, was found inside the home and taken into custody without incident. Police recovered a weapon from the scene as forensic specialists processed evidence throughout the early morning hours.
At Micah Sykes’ court appearance on Dec. 11, Deputy District Attorney Cesar Rodriguez revealed that the defendant’s mother witnessed the attack. The murder charge includes sentence-enhancing allegations involving the use of deadly weapons—specifically a knife, garden shears, and a barbell—as well as inflicting great bodily injury on a person over 60 years old. Rodriguez told the court that Micah had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and was supposed to be medicated but was either under-medicated or not following his doctor’s recommendations.
The prosecutor also disclosed that Micah had been arrested on October 24, 2024, for felony grand larceny by Los Angeles Police but was released the following day with no charges filed. Court records additionally show that a woman named Sarah Bennett filed a restraining order against Micah in 2017, alleging he exhibited signs of mental instability and had been violent toward his own family members.
Judge Theresa R. McGonigle ordered Micah held without bail and issued a protective order preventing him from contacting his mother. His arraignment has been delayed until February 11, 2026, at the defense’s request.
Santa Monica police Lt. Lewis Gilmour told reporters that the suspect has a history of mental health struggles and is cooperating with investigators. Family members indicated that Micah lived with his parents and that Sykes and his wife were dedicated to helping their son. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, though authorities emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the community.
The case has been referred to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration. Detective Peter Zamfirov is leading the investigation and has asked anyone with information to contact the department.
Born in Los Angeles in 1954, Sykes graduated from Santa Monica High School in 1972. He built a remarkable career as a baritone opera singer, performing at hundreds of prestigious venues around the world. His performances graced the stages of the Kennedy Center, the Hollywood Bowl, and the Apollo Theater, among many others. The singer was nominated for a Grammy Award for best classical album in 2010 for his performance in Leonard Bernstein’s Mass, in which he performed the Celebrant role.
Dave Kleinknecht, who met Sykes at Pacific Crossroads Church in Santa Monica where the singer often performed, remembered him fondly. “Jubilant lived out his name. He had such jubilation for everything in life,” Kleinknecht said. “He was really just a force of love.”
Vienna Hayes, Sykes’ cousin, described him as “an amazing singer, amazing person, amazing personality. He was just a light.” Friends and colleagues consistently noted how the artist remained devoted to his community despite achieving international recognition. Pam Forbes observed that while he performed around the world, Sykes “never forgot where he came from.”
The singer’s versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between opera, gospel, and jazz. His ability to blend classical training with other musical genres distinguished him throughout his career. Opera houses and concert halls worldwide welcomed his powerful baritone voice, which critics praised for its depth and emotional resonance.
Sykes’ Grammy nomination came five years after he was praised for his performance as Celebrant in Leonard Bernstein’s Mass. The recording also earned Editor’s Choice recognition from Gramophone Magazine, cementing his status among classical music’s elite performers.
The incident occurred in what neighbors described as a quiet residential area. One neighbor who asked not to be identified expressed shock at seeing crime tape and the coroner’s presence. The individual noted hearing reports of a domestic dispute and called the situation particularly sad given its timing during the holiday season.
Sykes is survived by his wife, Cecelia, and three sons. Those who knew him said he found his greatest joy in spending time with family at home and church. His commitment to his loved ones matched his dedication to his art, friends reported.
The music community has lost a performer whose career spanned multiple continents and musical traditions. His contributions to opera and classical music reached audiences at venues that represent the pinnacle of performing arts. From his Los Angeles roots to international stages, Sykes built a legacy that bridged different musical worlds while maintaining deep connections to his hometown of Santa Monica.
As the case moves forward through the criminal justice system, the music world mourns the loss of an artist who brought classical music to diverse audiences. Sykes’ ability to connect with listeners across genres and his dedication to his craft leave an enduring mark on opera and beyond.