Wendy & Mia Share an Update on Karen After Her Former Assistant Matt Byars' Death
RHOP's Dr. Wendy Osefo and Mia Thornton called Karen Huger together from Bravo's Fan Fest.
Mia Thornton and Dr. Wendy Osefo are sending Karen Huger love after the death of her former assistant, Matthew "Matt" Byars.
Matt, who viewers first met on The Real Housewives of Potomac Season 3, passed away at the age of 37 on November 21.
During Bravo Fan Fest 2024, which took place in Miami on November 23, Karen's castmates offered an update on how the Grand Dame is doing.
"When we found out about the news, we did call Karen," Mia Thornton told E! News. "I was actually with my castmate Wendy and we did call her immediately and we let her know, 'Karen, we love you. We're here for you.'"
Mia recalled texting Karen about Matt's death as well.
"I texted her, 'Sister, I love you. If you need anything, I'm here for you,'" she said. "It's really, really hard, because we don't check on our strong friends. Matt was such a strong friend to Karen from what I saw, an outsider looking in. Any time I saw him, he welcomed us with open arms. He was so loving. So it's a shocker for us. But I also think that his life will help save many more. And I want to make sure his legacy lives on."
Dr. Wendy shared a message of support to Matt's loved ones.
"I'm just sending Matt love, I'm sending his family love. He was an integral part of Karen's life and we are all around each other, which makes him an integral part of all of our lives," Dr. Wendy told the outlet. "I just hope that, when people are going through things, that there's people out there that love them."
Karen Huger pays tribute to Matt Byars
The day news of Matt's passing went public, Karen spoke about the loss in a statement to PEOPLE.
"I will always remember Matt as the radiant, compassionate 17-year-old I met so many years ago," Karen began in her statement. "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 went on to thank Matt for showing her "kindness" when her mother passed away.
"I didn't expect him to be there, but that was Matt — always showing up with love and support that touched the soul," she continued. "His presence during that time will forever hold a special place in my heart."
The RHOP cast member said her former assistant was "deeply loved" and that "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," she concluded. "Until we meet again, I will carry your memory in my heart. You will be missed beyond words, my friend."
