The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Mary Cosby’s son, Robert Cosby Jr., has died at age 23, Us Weekly can confirm.
TMZ was first to report the news on Wednesday, February 25, reporting that Robert Jr. died in Utah following a possible overdose. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
“Our beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord,” Mary shared in a statement to Us Weekly. “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.”
Bravo also issued a statement, telling Us, “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Mary’s beloved son, Robert Jr. Mary is a cherished member of our family, and our thoughts, love, and deepest condolences are with her and her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Salt Lake City Police Department confirmed to Us on Wednesday that they responded to a call for an overdose at Mary and husband Robert Cosby Sr.’s Utah home at 6:14 p.m. on Monday, February 23. Authorities discovered Robert Jr. dead upon arrival. An investigation into his death is open and active.
Mary shared Robert Jr. with husband Robert Sr., whom she has been married to since 1998.
Robert Jr.’s addiction battle has been showcased on RHOSLC, with Mary earning praise for sharing the realities of his struggles on the show.
Robert Jr. first revealed his battle with substance abuse during a season 5 episode that aired in November 2024. He explained to Mary that “life is just chicken unseasoned.” He admitted to doing several drugs, including Xanax and cocaine.
“When I get high, it’s like adding seasoning to it,” he added. “At first, I was like, ‘I’m going to just stick to natural stuff.’ Then, I went to a party, and someone gave me Xanax. I started buying it. Then, I started doing Xanax with acid and then molly with Xanax. I really like Xanax, so I mix it with everything.”
By December 2024, Mary said her son was recovering following a monthlong stay in a rehabilitation program. She continued to share his ups and downs on the show following their initial conversation, detailing his jail stay during the RHOSLC season 6 reunion last month.
“I’m not worried about him,” she said at the time. “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.”
Us confirmed in November 2025 that Robert Jr. pleaded guilty to trespassing and assault following a series of incidents involving ex-wife Alexiana Smokoff and her father. He was also accused of violating a protective order at the time. Smokoff filed for divorce from Robert Jr. that same month.
Robert Jr.’s death came weeks after he settled his divorce from Smokoff. Robert Jr. was not present in court as their split became final, as he was still incarcerated.
Robert Jr. was released from a Utah jail earlier this month, confirming his release with a return to Instagram.
“I’m back :),” he captioned a series of photos on the social media platform on February 6.
Robert Jr.’s attorney Clayton Simms confirmed his release to People at the time. He was required to serve 36 months of probation and complete 75 hours of community service.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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