**Talent Manager Matthew Byars Dies at 37**

**Beloved by Bravo Stars, His Death Declared a Suicide**

Popular talent manager Matthew Byars, known for his association with "Real Housewives of Potomac" star Karen Huger, tragically passed away on Thursday at the age of 37. Multiple media outlets confirmed the cause of death as suicide, contributing to a wave of grief and shock among his friends and colleagues within the Bravo community.

"Real Housewives of New Jersey" star Melissa Gorga paid a heartfelt tribute to Byars on her Instagram. Gorga posted several photos and expressed her deep sorrow, writing, "I wish I could have saved you." She continued, "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. They don't make them like us... Thank you for the memories."

Karen Huger, who has known Byars since he was in his late teens, spoke fondly of her long-standing relationship with him. In a past interview with Bravo's Daily Dish in 2019, Huger shared her role as a mentor to Byars, stating, "I encourage Matt when life is difficult. A lot of people call me 'Mama Karen' in Potomac because I love helping young folk. When life was trying to him, I reached out and told him to go to school, and he did, and now we work together."

Reflecting on their professional and personal bond, Huger added, "Matt's a good guy and us together, two powerhouses together, we make great things happen off-screen, in family and personal life, and we also make things happen fantastic on-screen, as you noticed. We're good."

Former "Real Housewives of Potomac" star Charrisse Jackson-Jordan also mourned the loss of Byars. She shared a photo with him on her Instagram Stories, accompanying it with the caption, "Rest In Peace," according to People.

The untimely death of Matthew Byars has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, both within and outside the Bravo sphere. His infectious personality, enduring spirit, and the memories he created with friends and colleagues will be cherished, even as his premature departure leaves many questions unanswered.