Andy Cohen announced the death of Kyra Sampson, the former production manager for Watch What Happens Live (WWHL), during the show's closing moments on Tuesday. Sampson passed away at the age of 28 after a battle with brain cancer.
Visibly emotional, Cohen described Sampson as having a "sweet smile and gentle demeanor," but also as a "small but mighty enforcer" during her four years with the production. He noted her positive impact on the show and its team.
Sampson was diagnosed with an aggressive form of glioblastoma at 27. According to a fundraiser for "The Kyra Fund," she faced treatment with determination while prioritizing time with loved ones, friends, music, popular culture, and creating memories.
David Samson, former president of the Miami Marlins, is Kyra Sampson's father. He confirmed her passing on X, stating that she died peacefully after a nine-month fight against glioblastoma. He described his daughter as someone who "loved deeply" and handled her illness with "courage, poise, and resolve."
Glioblastoma is described by the Mayo Clinic as an aggressive brain cancer originating in astrocytes, cells that support nerve cells. While treatments exist to slow its progression, there is no known cure for the disease.
"The Kyra Fund" has been established to support research into glioblastoma treatments. The fund's website highlights Sampson's "courage, bravery, grit, strength, and authenticity" in the face of her illness.