How The Real Housewives of Potomac Honored Matt Byars After His Death

Matt Byars may no longer be with us, but his presence remains deeply etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. On the Dec. 1 episode of The Real Housewives of Potomac (RHOP), the show paid tribute to Karen Huger’s longtime assistant and confidant, who tragically passed away at the age of 37 on Nov. 21, 2024.

As the episode concluded, viewers saw a touching end card featuring Matt’s picture alongside the words, “In loving memory. Matthew Byars, 1987–2024.” It was a poignant moment that underscored how much he meant to both the RHOP cast and the Bravo community.

A Legacy of Friendship and Loyalty

Matt Byars was more than just Karen Huger’s assistant; he was her steadfast friend and unwavering supporter. Over the years, Matt became a familiar face on RHOP, most notably standing by Karen during her infamous Season 3 press conference as she addressed rumors about her family’s financial troubles. His sharp wit, warm demeanor, and behind-the-scenes influence earned him the admiration of viewers and castmates alike.

Following the heartbreaking news of his passing, Karen released a heartfelt statement, reflecting on their enduring bond.

“I will always remember Matt as the radiant, compassionate 17-year-old I met so many years ago,” Karen shared. “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.”

Karen also spoke about how Matt’s love and support helped her navigate the grief of losing her mother in 2017, describing him as “deeply loved” and an irreplaceable part of her life.

Karen’s Castmates Share Their Support

Karen’s RHOP castmates expressed their condolences and admiration for Matt’s vibrant spirit. At Bravo’s Fan Fest in Miami on Nov. 23, Mia Thornton shared her reaction to the news.

“I was with my castmate Wendy [Osefo], and we called Karen immediately,” Mia said. “We let her know, ‘Karen, we love you. We’re here for you.’ Matt was such a strong friend to Karen from what I saw, always welcoming us with open arms. His loss is a shock to us all.”

Mia also emphasized the importance of supporting strong individuals like Matt, who often carry the weight of others’ burdens without showing their own struggles.

Wendy Osefo echoed these sentiments, saying, “Matt was an integral part of Karen’s life and, by extension, ours. I just hope that, when people are going through hard times, they know they are surrounded by love.”

Remembering Matt Byars: A Life Well-Lived

For Karen, Matt was more than an assistant—he was family. In her heartfelt tribute, she vowed to honor his memory:

“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.”

As fans of RHOP and the Bravo family reflect on Matt’s legacy, his warmth, loyalty, and indomitable spirit remain an enduring inspiration. Whether orchestrating a press conference or simply sharing a laugh with Karen, Matt Byars left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

His memory will live on, not only through Karen Huger and the RHOP cast but also in the hearts of fans who recognized his invaluable contributions to the show and the people around him.

The Real Housewives of Potomac airs Sundays at 8/7c on Bravo.