Update: Karen Huger released a statement about the death of Matt Byars, giving an exclusive statement to People magazine.

“I will always remember Matt as the radiant, compassionate 17-year-old I met so many years ago,” she said. “His genuine heart and boundless energy lifted everyone around him. More than a beloved presence on RHOP and in the Bravo community, Matt was a determined and driven young man with a deep bond to the Huger family. I’ll never forget the kindness he showed during my mother’s passing. I didn’t expect him to be there, but that was Matt — always showing up with love and support that touched the soul. His presence during that time will forever hold a special place in my heart. Matt was deeply loved, and his absence will be felt profoundly by all who knew him. To his family, I send my deepest condolences, love, and prayers for comfort. Matt, my heart is broken. I love you — here and beyond. Until we meet again, I will carry your memory in my heart. You will be missed beyond words, my friend.”

Previously reported:

The Bravo TV universe was hit with sad news as talent manager Matthew “Matt” Byars, who made appearances on The Real Housewives of Potomac, has died at the age of 37.

Recognized as Karen Huger’s assistant, he was first seen on season 3 of the reality TV show when the Grande Dame held the unforgettable press conference to clarify misconceptions regarding her husband, Ray Huger, aka the “Black Bill Gates,” who at the time was hit with a lawsuit pertaining to his company.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Karen Huger (@officialkarenhuger)

“I’ve known Matt since he was about 17, 18 years old. I encourage Matt when life is difficult. A lot of people call me ‘Mama Karen’ in Potomac because I love helping young folk,” Hugar said in an interview with The Daily Dish in 2019 about her relationship with Byars. “When life was trying to him, I reached out and told him to go to school, and he did, and now we work together.”

She continued, “He’s like family. He came to my mother’s funeral. I wasn’t on this show when I met Matt. I was a mother in Potomac, and he needed some advice and I gave it and he never forgot it. And what makes him a true friend is that friendship continued to grow even when I got on this platform.”

Current RHOP housewife Ashley Darby shared a video acknowledging Byars passing and asking fans to send Hugar some words of encouragement during this time.

“Good morning friends! I’m sure many of you have heard about the unfortunate news that Matt Byars has passed away,” she said at the beginning of the video. “If you can, please reach out to Karen Huger. She and Matt were very close. I think Karen’s known Matt, I want to say, since either known Matt since either middle school or high school, so it’s been a very long time. And, you know, it is very important that we check on our friends. Everyone is going through something and I acknowledge that. And sometimes it’s just too much unfortunately to bear for some of us.”

Former RHOP star Charrisse Jackson-Jordan paid tribute to Byars by sharing a photo of her and him and captioning it, “Rest In Peace.”

Melissa Gorga of The Real Housewives of New Jersey posted a video that featured a slideshow of multiple photos of them throughout the years with a lengthy caption.

“Matt- Why didn’t you tell me Matt? I’m heartbroken. Your personality was infectious. Your jokes- you always had them. You should have done stand up- I know it was your dream. My heart hurts Matt. Because earlier this week you didn’t tell me. I know life was tough- I know-,” it read. “Thank you for bringing me my very 1st performance of “ON DISPLAY”- you and I- WE ARE LOYAL. They don’t make them like us. I wish I could have saved you. Thank you for the memories 💔 Go fly- Go make them laugh.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Melissa Gorga (@melissagorga)

Bravo fans were shocked to hear the news and shared their sentiments on X, formally known as Twitter.

“What!!! I liked Matt RIP and hope Karen is ok 😭” one person wrote.

“Wow! This is very sad news. He did have some truly memorable scenes with Karen ☹️,” someone else said.

“Always enjoyed Matt’s appearances on RHOP!,” another fan commented.

At this time, Byars’ cause of death is unknown.

karen hugerReal Housewives of Potomac