“Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” star Mary Cosby is speaking out on the sudden death of her son, Robert Jr.
“Our beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord. 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,” the reality star wrote on Instagram Wednesday.
A Salt Lake City Police Department spokesperson confirmed to Page Six that Robert was found dead on the evening of Feb. 23 after officers “responded to an overdose call that turned into a death investigation.”
He was 23 years old.
The “RHOSLC” star didn’t shy away from shedding light on Robert and his estranged wife Alexiana Smokoff’s alleged drug use, including during Season 6, which was filmed in early 2025.
Smokoff filed for divorce from Robert in November, after three years of marriage.
Robert also had a history of run-ins with the law, which Mary discussed during the Season 6 “RHOSLC” reunion in January.
During the episode, Mary, 53, shared that her son was arrested in November and was serving time in jail after violating a restraining order put in place by Smokoff’s family.
“I’m not worried about him,” Mary said, though she was visibly upset. “I know he’s somewhere where he’s not using.”
“At some point, I have to step back so that he can learn and he can make his own decisions, and unfortunately, he’s learning the hard way. But I’m OK with it … And I’d rather him be there than dead, you know?” she added.
Robert was released from jail earlier this month after serving two months.
His attorney, Clayton Simms, exclusively told Page Six at the time that Robert considered his time in jail to be “a blessing.”
“It allowed him to sober up and start thinking clearly. He’s looking forward to doing positive things,” Simms told us.
Mary celebrated her son’s release from jail on Feb. 7, posting a snap of him on Instagram and writing, “#godfirst Love you all🙏❤️ My Beautiful Son. I love him sm❤️🙏.”
“Real Housewives” executive producer Andy Cohen reacted to the news on Feb. 25, writing via Threads, “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.”
If you or someone you care about is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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