The cause of death for Texas Renaissance Festival founder George Coulam has been confirmed as suicide by Grimes County officials.
The 87-year-old was found dead in his Todd Mission home on May 21. Authorities and local officials said they were initially investigating the death as a suicide, but Grimes County Pct 3 Justice of the Peace Mark Laughlin’s office has now officially confirmed the cause of death as suicide.
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OUR FIRST REPORT: Texas Renaissance Festival founder George Coulam found dead at Todd Mission home
Coulam was widely known as “King George” and lived less than a mile from the festival grounds he helped create. His passing leaves a deep impact on the Todd Mission community and the many who admired his legacy.
A kingdom he built
George Coulam founded the Texas Renaissance Festival in 1974, turning 55 acres of pine forest into one of the largest Renaissance fairs in the country.
For over five decades, it has drawn more than half a million visitors annually, becoming a fantasy destination for people around the world.
“I’ve been going since I was little,” said longtime attendee Yashodha Abeysingha. “It really is just like going into a fantasy realm where you leave everything behind.”
Abeysingha says the festival has fostered unique connections and memories, even recalling friends who travel from as far as Europe just to attend.
“I only see them and talk to them at Renaissance Festival, and we’re actually good friends!” she said.
A reign marked by recent turmoil
Coulam’s final year was fraught with legal and personal setbacks.
In 2023, he entered into a $60 million agreement with potential investors to sell the festival and its grounds. However, the deal collapsed when Coulam reportedly failed to meet contractual obligations and show necessary paperwork.
The investors subsequently filed a lawsuit, and earlier this month, a Grimes County judge ruled in their favor, ordering the sale of Coulam’s properties and awarding more than $23 million in damages and legal fees.
Adding to the upheaval, Coulam lost his long-held position as mayor of Todd Mission in the most recent election—his first defeat since the city was incorporated in 1982. He was the city’s first and only mayor.
Despite the controversies, many in the community see Coulam as a visionary whose leadership transformed Todd Mission from a quiet town into a unique cultural hub.
“For the people that enjoy the festival and the nightlife after it, this will leave a hole in their hearts,” said supporter Cristobal Lopez.
If you or someone you know needs help, the National Suicide Prevention number is 9-8-8.
