A rep for “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Taylor Armstrong confirmed to Access Hollywood that the reality star was on hand when the body of estranged husband Russell was found following a suicide.
In addition, on Wednesday, the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office confirmed to Access the death was a result of hanging and ruled a suicide. Toxicology reports are still pending.
The 47-year-old investment banker was found at a residence on Mulholland Drive in West Los Angeles on Monday night.
Following the tragedy, Access’ Shaun Robinson has been in touch with the Armstrong family, whose utmost concern is for the children, including the couple’s 5-year-old daughter, Kennedy.
Outside the Armstrong home, a sign has been posted reading, “Please do not disturb.” Additionally, it is believed that all of Taylor’s “Real Housewives” co-stars have been asked by Bravo not to speak publically about the death.
“Housewife” Lisa Vanderpump was spotted leaving her Beverly Hills restaurant on Tuesday telling the paparazzi, “There is nothing I can say to make it any better.”
Access spoke to Russell’s attorney, Ronald Richards, on Tuesday, who said he cautioned his client about appearing on the Bravo series.
“I warned him unequivocally prior to doing the show that their marriage would wind up in shambles and the show would ruin their lives,” Richards said.
Richards told Access the Bravo series put a huge strain on the couple’s relationship and finances, in part because they struggled to keep up with appearances.
“It ends up creating artificial strains on their marriage,” he told Access. “They end up trying to live a fantastical lifestyle that is not consistent with their economic means.”
In February, Russell discussed the struggle of watching the drama of their marriage unfold on TV.
“It was difficult, you know, the last three years have been very challenging for the entire country and I [have] been working 80 hour weeks,” he said on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” reunion special. “And it’s very easy to get preoccupied with kids and business and the day to day grind.”
Bravo executives have yet to determine the fate of the upcoming Season 2 of the hit series, which is slated to premiere on September 5
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