Talent manager and Bravo star Matthew Byars has died at the age of 37.
The PR agent, who had appeared on several episodes of Real Housewives of Potomac alongside Karen Huger, died yesterday.
The US Sun reports that the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office of Maryland has confirmed the news of his death, and that an autopsy has been completed.
A spokesperson told the outlet: ‘He died of multiple blunt force injuries. The way is lost.
After his death, a string of Bravo stars spoke on social media, paying tribute to friends and colleagues.
Real Housewives of New Jersey Melissa Gorga posted a lengthy tribute on her Instagram page, writing: ‘Matt – Why didn’t you tell Matt? I am heartbroken. Your personality is infectious. Your jokes – you always have them. You should have finished standing up – I know it’s a dream.
‘Your heart hurts Matt. Because earlier this week you didn’t tell me. I know life is hard – I do. Thank you for bringing me the 1st performance “ON DISPLAY” – you and me – WE ARE LOYAL.
‘They didn’t make them like us. I wish I could save you. Thanks for the memories. Go fly – Go make people laugh.’
His co-star, Dolores Catania, commented in her post: ‘We all love him so sorry for your loss. I know how close you are. Mat we will miss you rest in peace my friend (sic).’
Margaret Josephs said: ‘So sick and hurt, I can’t believe this is true. We were together two weeks ago. Matty B sweetest soul forever in our hearts love you.’
Crystal Kung Minkoff, of the Beverly Hills franchise, added: ‘I had dinner with him last year and he spoke highly of you. He really loves you. I’m sorry for losing you.’
Real Housewives of Potomac’s Charrisse Jackson-Jordan shared a message of condolence on her Instagram story, writing: ‘Rest in peace.’
News of Byars’ death surfaced earlier today – aside from talent management and PR, Instagram notes that he also worked in real estate, marketing and consulting.
She became a fan favorite after her memorable RHOP debut, when she first appeared alongside Huger in season three, which premiered in 2018.
In the episode, he is by her side during a ‘press conference’ with her friends, where she tries to go on the record about her financial situation.
She will continue to make cameos throughout the series, and also become close to other Bravo legends, posing for Instagram pictures with Luann de Lesseps, Sonja Morgan, Cynthia Bailey, Erika Jayne Girardi, Vicki Gunvalson and Andy Cohen.
Speaking to The Daily Dish in 2019, Huger revealed that he had known Byars since they were young, and that they had enjoyed a working relationship.
‘Matt is very good, very good at homework,’ she said at the time. ‘I have a PR, Matt is not my PR, but I will say that Matt is in my agent’s line, my booking person, and it works for me.
‘I met some dynamic people through this powerful young man, who was very connected. And his personality and connection just work so well together, and I’m glad to have Matt in my life.
‘He’s a talkative man and, again, a very successful and powerful young man. I don’t mess with peons.
‘Matt is a great man and we are together, two powerhouses together, we make great things on screen, in our family and in our personal lives, and we also make things happen on screen, as you know. We’re good.’
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