Celebrity News February 25, 2026
‘RHOSLC’ Star Mary Cosby’s Son Robert Cosby Jr. Dead at 23
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Robert Cosby Jr., who appeared on “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” with his mom Mary Cosby, has died.
In a statement obtained by "Extra," Mary and her husband Robert Cosby Sr. confirmed Robert's passing. She said, "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.”
Bravo, which airs "The Real Housewives of Salt Late City," also released a statement, saying, "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.”
A Salt Lake City Police Department spokesperson told Page Six that Robert was found dead on Monday evening when officers “responded to an overdose call that turned into a death investigation.”
"Extra" also obtained dispatch audio from the scene.
A dispatcher says, “Twenty-three year-old male, not conscious, not breathing. One dose of Narcan given,” adding, “Police have been called. Three units in route."
TMZ reports that an official cause of death has not been determined.
Robert was going through a divorce from Alexiana Arian Smokoff when he died. They secretly wed in 2022, but she filed for divorce in late 2025.
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View StoryRobert Jr. had been open about his struggles with addiction on “RHOSLC,” revealing he had used Xanax, Adderall, OxyContin, and heroin at different times over the past several years.
At one point, he told Mary that he “wanted to die,” saying, “I felt like a stain — I just felt like this world wasn't for me. You’re the only reason I didn't kill myself."
Mary was heartbroken saying she “let him down somewhere” and “missed the mark.”
The reality star insisted on a later episode, “If I don't blame myself, whose fault is it? I feel I'm responsible.”
In December 2024, she gave an update on Robert on "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen.”
"He did go to rehab,” she said. "He stayed for a month. He completed it. He did an excellent job. He came out a new person."