Andy Cohen Pays Tribute to WWHL Crew Member Who Passed Away from Brain Cancer

Andy Cohen is grieving the loss of a beloved member of the Watch What Happens Live team.

On the Thursday, June 25 episode of the talk show, Cohen, 58, struggled to hold back tears as he revealed that Kyra Samson, a former production manager for the show, passed away from brain cancer on Tuesday, June 23. She was just 28 years old.

“In her four incredible years with us, Kyra was recognized for her kind smile and warm personality. Yet, she was also a small but formidable enforcer,” he shared in a heartfelt tribute. “Seeing Kyra wield a bullhorn to manage huge crowds at BravoCon was something special to witness. She will be profoundly missed by all of us and surely by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.”

“We invite you to honor her memory by contributing to the Kyra Fund, which aims to fund critical research for individuals with glioblastomas and support future Kyras out there,” Cohen continued.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. We love you, Kyra,” he added.

A fundraising initiative in Kyra’s memory, the Kyra Fund, has already raised nearly $300,000 for brain cancer research.

“Kyra was diagnosed at the age of 27 with glioblastoma multiforme, one of the most aggressive types of brain cancer,” the page states. “She faced her treatment with relentless determination while cherishing what mattered most: moments with loved ones, laughter with friends, music, pop culture, and creating cherished memories. Despite unimaginable challenges, Kyra embodied courage, resilience, strength, and authenticity.”

Kyra’s father, former Major League Baseball executive turned podcaster David Samson, expressed his sorrow over his daughter’s death in an interview with The New York Times.

“We are intertwining our sorrow and grief with immense gratitude because she lived fully for those 28 years. Not for a day was she deprived. But now she has been denied what could have been,” her father reflected.

“I want Kyra to be the statistic — a catalyst that helps prevent this pain from affecting other families and young people,” he expressed. “I want her to mark the end of this devastating journey. This disease is brutal and merciless: One day, it changes everything, and there’s no going back.”

As reported by the Times, Samson later worked as a production coordinator on Jeopardy! after her time at WWHL.