The Bravo community is mourning the loss of one of its own. Andy Cohen became visibly emotional during Thursday night’s episode of “Watch What Happens Live” as he paid tribute to former production manager Kyra Samson, who died this week after battling glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. She was 28 years old.
The television host struggled to get through the announcement, remembering Samson not only as a valued member of the production team but as someone whose warmth and determination left a lasting impression on everyone who worked alongside her.
Credit: Eric Kowalsky / MEGA
Cohen shared the heartbreaking news at the start of the episode, revealing that Samson passed away on Tuesday after a months-long fight against brain cancer.
While reflecting on her time with the show, Cohen remembered Samson’s unique ability to balance kindness with leadership, joking that despite her gentle personality, she had no trouble taking charge when the moment called for it.
The emotional tribute ended with Cohen sending his love to Samson’s family and friends before a photo of the two appeared on screen. The moment quickly resonated with viewers, many of whom took to social media to share messages of support and condolences.
A Devastating Diagnosis At Just 27
According to The Kyra Fund, Samson was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme at age 27. Glioblastoma is considered one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer and remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat. Despite the diagnosis, those closest to Samson say she approached every challenge with extraordinary resilience.
“Kyra pursued treatment options with unwavering determination while prioritizing what mattered most to her: time with loved ones, laughter with friends, music, consuming popular culture, and creating beautiful memories,” the official website reads.
The organization established in her honor describes her as someone who faced her illness with “courage, bravery, grit, strength, and authenticity.” The fund now aims to support research efforts focused on developing new treatments and advancing immunotherapy options for patients facing similar diagnoses.
“In partnership with the Glioblastoma Research Organization (GBMRO), The Kyra Fund will support urgently needed research for individuals with glioblastomas,” the official website states. “Glioblastoma remains one of the deadliest cancers, with limited treatment options and far too few breakthroughs. Through this partnership, donations made in Kyra’s honor will help accelerate promising research with the goal of ultimately finding a cure for this devastating illness. We hope this fund will help future Kyras.”
Her Father, David Samson, Shares Heartbreaking Message
Samson’s father, former Miami Marlins president and MLB analyst David Samson, announced her passing in an emotional social media post on Wednesday. He revealed that his daughter fought the disease for nine months and 11 days before passing away peacefully.
Describing the loss as unimaginable, David reflected on the strength Kyra displayed throughout her illness and the profound impact she had on those around her. He also encouraged supporters to donate to The Kyra Fund, explaining that all contributions will go toward glioblastoma research in hopes of helping future patients and families.
‘The Hole In Our Family Is Unthinkable’
In comments shared with The Athletic, David opened up further about the devastating reality of losing his daughter. “The hole in our family is unthinkable,” he said. “I don’t know how to fill it.” He also vowed to continue speaking publicly about Kyra’s story and advocating for brain cancer research.
According to David, honoring his daughter’s legacy means ensuring that others understand both the severity of glioblastoma and the urgent need for better treatment options. Rather than allowing her story to end with tragedy, he hopes her battle will inspire meaningful progress for future generations facing the disease.
Best Friend Shares Heartbreaking Tribute Following Kyra Samson’s Death
Kyra’s best friend, Katherine, also took to social media to pay tribute, writing, “My best friend, Kyra Samson, passed away yesterday, peacefully and surrounded by a lot of love.”
She added, “Which is an insane thing to say because she was 28 and last summer she was perfectly and completely fine as she drove around the Sony lot after work with me and we laughed, and yapped, and couldn’t believe how lucky we were to be working together again, on a studio lot where they shot ‘The Wizard of Oz.’”
Kyra and Katherine met while working on “WWHL,” and they “bonded instantly.” Katherine said they shared the same Bravo opinions, production ideas, a childhood love of the Jonas Brothers, and a current love of Adele, and, most importantly, shared time.
Now, through The Kyra Fund and the memories shared by friends, family, and colleagues, those closest to Samson hope her legacy will continue to make a difference long after her death.
