“She Rates Dogs” co-host Mat George killed in Los Angeles hit-and-run

Mat George, who co-hosted the “She Rates Dogs” podcast, was killed in a hit-and-run in Los Angeles early Saturday morning, his co-host confirmed on Sunday.

According to CBS Los Angeles, a pedestrian was struck by a BMW in the community of Beverly Grove at around 2:20 a.m., and the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office identified this person to CBS Los Angeles as Matthew Thomas George. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Co-host Michaela Okland announced her death on Twitter. Tributes to the 26-year-old poured into social media shortly after her announcement.

I would rather you guys here this from me than a news article. Mat was killed in a hit and run last night. I don’t really have any other words at the moment. I wish I could contact anyone who knows him personally but the news is already out and I just can’t do it at the moment

– michaela okland (@MichaelaOkla) July 17, 2021

George was known for his bright personality, comedic wit and outspokenness, which made him endearing to many “She Rates Dogs” listeners. He co-hosted the podcast for just over a year.

the death of mat george hits me particularly hard. I didn’t know the man at all, but I saw his tweets and interactions on TV all the time. he seemed to be the embodiment of a great guy and it sucks so much that he’s gone. just like that. no rhyme or reason. rest in peace.

– Philadelphia Parking Authority hate account (@IsaacSungIJ) July 17, 2021

mat george was incomparably funny, incomparably kind and one of the best people i have ever known. today is incredibly sad, fucked up and unfair. we will miss you so much.

– ellie schnitt (@holy_schnitt) July 17, 2021

Mat George was the funniest person I know, funnier than most career comedians. I told him that every time we spoke. His career barely started and I was so excited to see him succeed. I am at a loss for words. Rest in peace.

– abby govindan (@abbygov) July 17, 2021

In an interview with Shoutout Arizona last year, George stressed the importance of sharing his life as a gay man with listeners and fans. “Growing up and being in the closet, I never knew anyone or heard of anyone who had experiences and fears like the ones I had,” said George:

“My hope for my Twitter account and SheRatesDogs the Podcast is to share my stories and make LGBTQ + people around the world feel like they’re not alone. The most rewarding times are when members of the LGBTQ + community reach out to me and tell me what a difference I have made in their lives, ”said George.

Co-host Okland also posted to the “She Rates Dogs” account to announce that another episode starring George was taped before his death and was due for release on Tuesday. She said it will likely be put on hold, however. She said “the words and support from their listeners made him so happy.”

Hi everyone, Michaela here. Mat and I recorded another episode that was due out on Tuesday, but it will likely be put on hold. I know that in the years to come, I will feel so lucky that there are so many recordings of Mat’s Laughter to review. I’m not ready to talk about everything

– She rates the dogs: the podcast (@sheratesdogspod) July 17, 2021

or having to use the past tense to describe it. I think you all knew within 10 seconds of listening to it how vibrant, loving, accepting and wonderful Mat George is. This community made him so happy. Your words and support made him so happy. Thanks for talking about him

– She rates the dogs: the podcast (@sheratesdogspod) July 17, 2021

The Los Angeles Police Department is still seeking information about the white BMW that hit and killed George. LAPD West Traffic Division detectives are urging anyone with advice to contact (213) 473-0234 or call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.