Byars appeared on Bravo’s popular reality show The Real Housewives of Potomac. He was best known as an assistant to cast member Karen Huger.
He was featured in the show’s season three episode “Meet the Press,” where Huger tried to clear up rumors about her finances.
Since his passing was confirmed, tributes have been pouring in for Byars.
The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Melissa Gorga posted on Instagram: “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.”
Former RHOP star Charrisse Jackson Jordan shared a picture of the two on her Instagram story with the words: “Rest in Peace.”
Huger honored her late friend with a heartfelt statement to People magazine, remembering his “genuine heart” and “boundless energy.”
She added: “Matt was deeply loved, and his absence will be felt profoundly by all who knew him. To his family, I send my deepest condolences, love, and prayers for comfort.
“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.”
Huger previously talked about Byars in a 2019 interview with The Daily Dish, where she said: “I’ve known Matt since he was about 17, 18 years old. 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 for him, I reached out and told him to go to school, and he did, and now we work together.”
RHOP stars Mia Thornton and Wendy Osefo shared how they’ve supported Huger since hearing the sad news of Byars’ passing.
Thornton told E! News: “When we found out about the news, we did call Karen. I was actually with my cast mate Wendy and we did call her immediately and we let her know, ‘Karen, we love you. We’re here for you.'”
She added: “I texted her, ‘Sister, I love you. If you need anything, I’m here for you.'”
According to The Sun U.S., Byars died on November 21, as confirmed by Maryland’s Chief Office of Medical Examiner.
A spokesperson told the news outlet: “He died of multiple blunt force injuries. The manner is suicide.”
An autopsy report has been completed.
