'RHOSLC' Star Mary Cosby Speaks Out Following the Passing of Her Son Robert Cosby Jr.

A mother's worst nightmare has become a heartbreaking reality. Just months ago, her words sent a chill through viewers, and now her televised fear has turned into the kind of tragedy that shakes reality TV far beyond the screen.

A devastating turn of events has left one "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" star grappling with an unimaginable loss, as troubling new details continue to surface.

Authorities responded to a call at reality TV Star Mary Cosby's home involving her son, a moment that would soon take on far greater weight amid mounting legal issues and a recently finalized divorce.

According to TMZ, the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) responded Monday night, February 23, 2026, to a report of a "full arrest/medical emergency" concerning Mary's son, Robert Cosby Jr.

Authorities say the situation evolved into a death investigation after officers arrived, with a possible overdose noted in the initial response. Firefighters and paramedics were also dispatched. Officials have not confirmed an official cause of death.

But what happened inside the home that night adds another heartbreaking layer to the story.

What Details Were Discovered from the 911 Call

According to People, SLCPD dispatch audio revealed authorities were called to Mary's Utah home just before 6 p.m. local time Monday. In the 911 call recording, a dispatcher can be heard describing a "23-year-old male" who was "not conscious" and "not breathing."

The audio further indicated that one dose of Narcan — an over-the-counter nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses — was administered at the scene. Three police units were dispatched to the residence, based on the recording.

The Reunion Moment That Hits Differently Now

For months, viewers of "The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" ("RHOSLC") watched the Bravo star navigate one of the most painful chapters of her life: her son Robert Jr.'s legal troubles and battle behind the scenes.

But what no one expected was just how prophetic some of her words would turn out to be. Back in January, during Part 2 of the Season 6 reunion, Mary made a chilling confession. She admitted she feared for her son's life while he was being held in Salt Lake County Metro Jail following a November arrest.

According to a report from Page Six, Mary tried to stay strong on camera, saying she wasn't worried about him because he was in a place where he wasn't using drugs. Still, she couldn't hide her emotion.

"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. It's just, you don't want to see your kid suffer, but I know it's good," she said at the time, before adding, "I'd rather him be there than dead, you know?"

A Glimmer of Hope Behind Bars

She also revealed that while she couldn't bring herself to visit him in jail, the two spoke daily. As detailed by Bravo's The Daily Dish, Mary explained, "I can't go to the jail, Andy. That's a little weird. I don't want to look at my child behind a glass [sic]."

Instead, she said she would "preach" to him over their frequent phone calls. "You're going through this, but you have to realize that God is allowing it," she told him. "If God allowed it, then it's for your good. This will help you to change, and you gotta change."

Even Robert Jr.'s attorney shared a surprisingly hopeful update at the time. In an exclusive statement to Page Six, Clayton Simms said the 23-year-old considered his time in jail "a blessing."

"It allowed him to sober up and start thinking clearly," Clayton said, adding that Robert Jr. was looking forward to "doing positive things" and moving forward after the dissolution of his marriage. There were signs of struggle, but also signs of hope, which is why what happened next feels so shocking.

Then, Everything Changed

Robert Jr. passed away at just 23 years old, and as the tragic news spread, the Cosby family released a statement through their attorney.

In a message shared with Page Six, Clinton Simms said, "Robert Sr. and Mary Cosby are mourning the loss of their beloved son, Robert Clinton Cosby, Jr. His untimely passing is hard to comprehend, and the Cosbys are struggling to understand how someone so young and full of life could be gone so soon."

Mary Speaks Out About the Unimaginable Loss

The statement continues, describing Robert Jr.'s "warm spirit, humor and [sic] kind heart" and how deeply he will be missed. But it was Mary's own words that truly stopped fans in their tracks.

On Instagram, the reality star shared a stark black background with a heartbreaking message written in white text. In the post, Mary penned, "Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in God's promise and in knowing he is finally at peace."

She also expressed gratitude to the public for their prayers and highlighted the family's reliance on their faith to carry them through this time of grief. Her caption was just as telling: "#godfirst #love #❤️."

Holding on to Faith Through the Unthinkable

Throughout her time on "RHOSLC," she has been outspoken about her spiritual beliefs, often framing even life's darkest moments as part of a larger divine plan. Now, in the wake of an unimaginable loss, she appears to be clinging to that same conviction.

The tragedy feels especially heavy given her reunion comments just a month ago. Mary once said she would rather her son be incarcerated than lose him forever. Today, that painful hypothetical has become a reality no parent should ever have to face.

And behind the bold personality and headline-making moments, Mary Cosby is now navigating the most heartbreaking chapter of her life, holding tightly to faith as she says goodbye to her only son.

In the months leading up to his death, Robert Jr.'s personal life had taken a dramatic turn.

A Marriage That Crumbled in the Months Before His Death

As previously reported by People, Robert Jr.'s now ex-wife, Alexiana Smokoff, filed for divorce in Salt Lake County District Court on November 24, 2025.

Court documents required that both parties refrain from harassing or disturbing one another and outlined restrictions, including prohibitions against domestic violence, interference with services, or misuse of personal identification.

In a statement to the outlet, Robert's attorney Clayton said, "Understanding and recognizing the relationship was difficult for Robert based on his religion and background. To him, marriage is sacred and forever."

Clayton said Robert looked to his parents' 27-year marriage as his model for relationships. Because of that, he had difficulty accepting that his own marriage was over and continued trying to maintain contact with Alexiana.

The attorney added that Robert later took responsibility for his actions and pleaded guilty to several misdemeanor charges.

As his legal issues unfolded, the divorce proceedings moved forward. Us Weekly reported that the court finalized the divorce on January 14, 2026. During a hearing held that same day, Robert — who remained behind bars on assault and trespassing accusations — did not appear, and the judge granted a default divorce decree.

Court records showed the former couple had no children or shared marital property. The court awarded neither party alimony and ordered Robert to pay Alexiana's legal fees. The settlement also included a provision prohibiting him from harassing, threatening, or contacting his ex-wife.

The divorce proceedings marked just one aspect of his mounting legal challenges.

Run-Ins with the Law

Robert Jr.'s challenges unfolded both on camera and off, as TMZ reported. On "RHOSLC," Mary addressed concerns about her son's alleged substance use.

Off-screen, his legal troubles mounted. He pleaded guilty to a 2022 driving under the influence (DUI) charge, and in September 2025, authorities in Utah arrested him on charges including trespassing and assault. He was released from prison in early February 2026.

At this time, we wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to Mary, Robert Sr., their entire family, community, loved ones, friends, and all who knew and loved Robert Jr. as they mourn such a significant loss. We hope for their healing amid their time of grief. RIP, dear Robert Jr.