Karen Huger’s Friend Matthew Byars Dead: Bravo Stars Tribute

Bravo’s biggest names join forces to mourn death The Real Housewives of Potomac star Karen Huger‘s friend Matthew Byars.

Byars died Thursday, Nov. 21, according to multiple reports. He was 37. As of The sunByars died by suicide.

Housewives fans got to know Byars for his appearances on RHOP over the years. Byars was Huger’s assistant on the series and a close personal friend. He cemented his Bravo legacy with his iconic press conference moment with Huger, 61, in RHOP season 3. The moment was meant for Huger to address her financial situation, but quickly turned into a heated roundtable discussion with her fellow Housewives.

Following the news of Byars’ passing on Friday, November 22, many Bravo stars, including Melissa Gorga, Ashley Darby, Cynthia Bailey and several responded to his death.

Keep scrolling to see the touching tributes made in Byars’ honor:

Ashley Darby

The RHOP star shared a video reacting to the news of Byars’ death and urging fans to send condolences to Huger.

“She and Matt were very close. I think Karen has known Matt, I’d say, since either middle school or high school. So it’s been a very long time, and you know, it’s very important that we check in on our friends ,” Darby said in a Friday Instagram Story video. “Everyone goes through something, and I recognize that. And sometimes it’s just too much to bear, unfortunately for some of us.”

Charrisse Jackson-Jordan

The RHOP alum shared a photo of her and Byars writing “Rest in Peace” via her Instagram Story.

Cynthia Bailey

The Real Housewives of Atlanta star paid tribute to Byars with a sweet post.

“So deeply saddened by the news of my longtime friend @officialmattbyars who passed away yesterday. Thank you Matt for all the beautiful memories, too many to share. I will never forget the laughter and love we shared,” she wrote via Instagram on Friday. “I will miss you my friend. Stay in the light. I love you.”

Golnesa “GG” Gharachedaghi

The Shahs of sunset star posted a throwback photo of her and Byars and opened up about their close bond.

“Oh Matt…I’m so sorry this world failed you. You were always a shining light of optimism and humor. You were one of the first people I started working with when I started at tv and you always stayed by my side to make sure I was okay. We were both young and always ready for fun!” she wrote. “To know you were to love you. God, I wish I knew… I wish I called you and checked in on you more. I’m so sorry. You have left this world a better place and have touched so many people’s lives with your love and loyalty. I’m so sorry, Matt Byars. I really hope we cross paths again. So until then, my friend…until then.”

Melissa Gorga

The Real Housewives of New Jersey star shared a video montage of moments of her and Byars over the years.

“I am devastated. Your personality was infectious,” she wrote Instagram wheel. “Your jokes – you always had them. You should have done stand-up – I know it was your dream. My heart hurts Matt.”

Several other housewives took to Gorga’s comments section to reflect on the time they shared with Byars.

“So heartbroken and devastated I can’t believe it’s true. We were together for the last two weeks,” Margaret Josephs replied. “Matty B the sweetest soul forever in our hearts we love you .”

Dolores Catania and Rachel Fuda sent their condolences to Gorga knowing the pair were close.