Real Housewives star dies aged 37 as friend issues heart-wrenching statement

Matthew Byars, known for his appearance on The Real Housewives of Potomac, has died at the age of 37. The talent manager featured in the show's third season and was introduced to fans by star Karen Huger.

Following the tragic news, Matthew's close friend and Real Housewives of New Jersey star Melissa Gorga shared a poignant message. She expressed her grief, saying: "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 - 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."

Charrisse Jackson-Jordan from Real Housewives of Potomac also paid homage by posting a photo with Matthew and captioning it: "Rest in Peace."

During his stint on the reality series, Matthew was part of Karen Huger's memorable "press conference" where she addressed speculation about her finances, reports the Mirror.

In 2019, Karen reminisced about meeting Matthew when he was just a teenager, sharing that she often gives guidance to the youth in Potomac, earning her the nickname "Mama Karen". She recounted advising him during a challenging time to pursue education, which he did, leading to their professional collaboration.

Karen Huger described their bond as "true friends" and referred to her companion as "like family". When she introduced Matthew on The Real Housewives of Potomac for moral backing, some of her co-stars were puzzled about his role in her life—Ashley Darby even mistook him for Karen’s lawyer.

Matthew featured in a number of episodes throughout the series. The Shahs of Sunset's Golnesa "GG" Gharachedaghi honoured Matthew, saying: "Noooo! I've known Matt since the beginning of being on TV as well.

"I did all my bookings around the nation together with him. What an amazing soul and kind human! " Rachel Fuda from Real Housewives of New Jersey expressed her condolences: "Such a deep loss. So sorry Melis. May he rest in peace and never be forgotten."

Digital influencer Peter Panos remarked on Matthew's loveliness: "He was such a sweet human being."

Tributes flooded social media with one user lamenting: "He was such a good guy, just heartbreaking. I wish I had known as well."

While another person shared their sorrow: "Beyond devastating," others remembered good times: "I have such fun memories of him when we all worked together."

A social media commenter further added to the chorus of praise: "He was the nicest and kindest. One of the best! " This was followed by someone who, despite not knowing Matthew personally, felt touched: "This breaks my heart even tho I didn't know him."