Southern Charm's Michael Kelcourse Has Died

Southern Charm's Michael Kelcourse has passed away, per series matriarch Patricia Altschul.

Viewers of Southern Charm will recognize Michael as Patricia's butler and "right-hand man," and he was a fan favorite.

Back in December and amid Michael's ongoing health issues, Bravo published a profile about him on their blog, The Daily Dish.

The network noted that Michael and Patricia's working relationship and genuine friendship predated reality TV.

Patricia's son, Whitney, provided an update on Michael's health as of December, explaining that he'd suffered a serious injury and was unwell and that the Altschul family was "hopeful" Michael could recover:

"I am sorry to inform you that Michael Kelcourse, affectionately known as 'Michael The Butler', recently suffered an acute spinal cord infarction which is often called a 'spinal cord stroke.'

"Although this tragedy has caused significant nerve damage and impairment, with the help of the outstanding physicians at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, we are hopeful Michael will soon recover. Thank you for respecting Michael’s privacy during this challenging time."

Michael's stroke occurred in February 2021, and due to its severity, he was forced to retire as Patricia's butler.

Southern Charm didn't address Michael's illness on-screen until the premiere of Season 8 in June 2022.

In that episode, Patricia said of her relationship with Michael:

"I’m still shocked by the whole thing because [Michael] had been with us for 18 years. My longest marriage lasted 15 years, so Michael is the most stable relationship I’ve ever had."

Patricia has been dutifully providing updates on Michael's health via Instagram and CaringBridge.

Patricia, Bravo, And Fans Remember Michael Kelcourse

On Wednesday, Patricia disclosed Michael's passing in a heartfelt Instagram memorial post:

Patricia appended a lengthy caption eulogizing Michael.

It was clear she cared for him sincerely, and her post began:

"It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Michael, who left us [Tuesday] morning in Sarasota. More than just a devoted butler, he was a trusted friend, confidant, and member of our family for over 20 years.

"Michael’s time on Southern Charm endeared him to many, as his humor and kindness quickly made him a fan favorite. Over the past two weeks, he was deeply touched by the incredible number of cards and well-wishes from fans. I’ve been told there were hundreds, and they brought him immense joy during his final days."

After letting fans know that Michael was aware of and "deeply touched by" fan support, she added:

"I will be devoting this week to remembering Michael. I know he meant so much to so many of you, as he did to us. He will be greatly missed."

Michael's CaringBridge page was updated similarly: "It is with a heavy heart that I share Michael Kelcourse died on October 22 in Sarasota, Florida due to complications related to a spinal cord injury and stroke."

An earlier update said that Michael "remained extraordinarily good natured about the cruel twist of fate," even as "hope of recovery dwindled."

Southern Charm fans on Reddit were heartbroken to learn about Michael's death, and one viewer commented: "What a gem Michael was. Such a sweet man."