TODD MISSION, Texas — George Coulam, the 87-year-old founder of the Texas Renaissance Festival, was found dead at his home in Todd Mission on Wednesday morning, according to the Grimes County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities say a housekeeper discovered Coulam’s body. Investigators have not yet disclosed the cause or time of death, but the sheriff’s office is working with local Todd Mission officials to follow up on the case.

Coulam’s death comes just weeks after a legal ruling forced him to sell both the Texas Renaissance Festival and the land it occupies. The dispute, widely publicized through the HBO docuseries Ren Faire, highlighted Coulam’s attempts to strike a $60 million deal with a group referred to as “The Greeks.” That deal—backed by entities including RW Lands, Texas Stargate, and Royal Campgrounds—ultimately collapsed, prompting the group to file a lawsuit. A court later ordered Coulam to move forward with the sale.

In a statement, festival organizers mourned his passing:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of George Coulam, founder of the Texas Renaissance Festival. For more than 50 years, he built a community that has become a cherished tradition for generations of performers, staff, and guests. At this time, we ask for respect and privacy for Mr. Coulam’s family and the extended Texas Renaissance Festival family as they grieve.”

The statement added that no further comments would be made, calling the situation a “deeply personal matter.”

It remains unclear what impact Coulam’s death will have on the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the festival’s ownership and future. Coulam, known for his eccentric leadership and colorful persona, had been a central figure in the operation of the festival since its founding in 1974.

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