Mary Cosby’s Son Robert Cosby Jr. Dies at 23
Robert Cosby Jr., the son of Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Mary Cosby, has died at the age of 23. The tragic news broke on Wednesday, , prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow Bravo personalities.
According to the Salt Lake City Police Department, officers responded to a call on Monday, , regarding a possible overdose. Upon arrival at Mary Cosby and her husband Robert Cosby Sr.’s Salt Lake City home, they discovered Robert Jr. Deceased. The investigation remains open, with the case now being handled by the medical examiner’s office.
The news was first reported by TMZ, and subsequently confirmed by multiple outlets including USA Today and People. Mary Cosby released a statement through TMZ, expressing her profound sorrow. “Our beloved son Robert Jr. Has been called home to the Lord,” she said. “Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in God’s promise and in knowing he is finally at peace. We are grateful for your prayers and trust in the Lord to carry us through this time of sorrow.”
Robert Jr. Had been featured on RHOSLC over the past six seasons, and his struggles with addiction and mental health were occasionally addressed on the show. Most recently, he had been dealing with legal issues following an arrest in September 2025. He ultimately pleaded guilty in November 2025 to charges including assault, trespassing, and violating a protective order related to his estranged wife, Alexiana Arian Smokoff, and her family. He was released from jail earlier this month, in February 2026.
During the season six reunion of RHOSLC, which aired last month, Mary Cosby spoke candidly about her son’s arrest. She told host Andy Cohen, “Unfortunately he’s learning the hard way, but I’m okay with it. It’s just, you don’t wanna see your kid suffer, but I know it’s good, and I’d rather him be there than dead.”
The news of Robert Jr.’s death has prompted an outpouring of support for Mary Cosby. Andy Cohen shared his condolences on Threads, stating, “Devastatingly sad news out of SLC. This is every parent’s worst nightmare. My heart is broken for Mary, and I am sending all my love to her and Robert Sr.” Kandi Burruss, a former cast member of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, also offered her support, commenting on Mary Cosby’s Instagram post, “Sending you love and prayers!”
Robert Jr. Is survived by his parents, Mary and Robert Cosby Sr. He was their only child. The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation, and authorities have not released further details at this time. The tragedy underscores the devastating impact of addiction and mental health struggles, and the profound grief experienced by families affected by these issues.
Mary Cosby’s most recent Instagram post, featuring a picture of Robert Jr., was accompanied by the caption, “Love you all, My Beautiful Son.. I love him sm.” The post has become a focal point for fans offering their condolences, and support.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.