On June 25’s episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” Andy Cohen announced the death of WWHL producer Kyra Samson, who died Tuesday, June 23, at age 28 after four years battling glioblastoma.
Emotions ran high Thursday, June 25, on “Watch What Happens Live” when Andy Cohen stepped in front of the cameras with devastating news. The host told viewers that producer Kyra Samson had died Tuesday, June 23, at age 28, after four years on staff.
“I have some devastating news,” Cohen began, announcing the end of Samson’s long fight. He spoke through visible grief as he described her presence on the show and the energy she brought to Bravo’s biggest live moments.
“Kyra was known for her sweet smile and gentle demeanor, but she could also be a small but mighty enforcer,” Cohen said, fighting back tears. “To see Kyra on a bullhorn corralling massive crowds at BravoCon was truly a sight to behold.”
On Instagram, Cohen later described Samson as an “incomparable part of the #WWHL team.”
Samson’s illness had started years earlier, when she was diagnosed at 27 with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. The Glioblastoma Foundation says the current standard of care—surgery. chemotherapy and radiation—remains largely ineffective. with median survival of about 15 months after diagnosis. The National Cancer Institute estimates that about 15,000 people are diagnosed with glioblastoma each year.
Cohen also directed viewers to the Kyra Fund, which supports glioblastoma research, and shared a link to the fundraiser. His message turned from what had been lost to what could still be helped, with the show’s audience being asked to step into a fight Samson could no longer finish.
A tribute on the organization’s website remembered Samson as “eccentric and unforgettable. ” describing how she approached her diagnosis with “unwavering determination.” It said she continued to prioritize what mattered most to her: spending time with loved ones. laughing with friends. enjoying music and pop culture. and making lasting memories.
“She’s going to be terribly missed by all of us here, and no doubt by everyone who was lucky enough to know her,” Cohen said. “We are sending all of our prayers and love to her family and her friends. We love you, Kyra.”
Andy Cohen Kyra Samson Watch What Happens Live WWHL glioblastoma brain cancer Kyra Fund BravoCon media