SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Mary Cosby, the prominent star of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City (RHOSLC), is mourning the sudden loss of her only child. Robert Cosby Jr. passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the age of 23, following a medical emergency at his home in Utah.
Tragedy Strikes the Cosby Family
Reports confirmed on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, that Robert Jr. died just three weeks after being released from jail. Emergency responders were reportedly called to a Utah residence for a “medical emergency,” but were unable to revive him. While an official cause of death has not been released by the medical examiner, local authorities are investigating a possible overdose.
The tragedy comes at a particularly turbulent time for the family. Just hours before the news of his passing broke, reports surfaced that Robert Jr. was facing two new felony assault charges stemming from a 2024 altercation with his then-wife, Alexiana Smokoff. He had recently completed a two-month jail stint and was serving 36 months of probation.
A Life in the Spotlight
Mary Cosby, a Pentecostal preacher and entrepreneur, has often spoken about her son on the Bravo reality series. In recent seasons, her primary storyline focused on her commitment to supporting Robert Jr.’s sobriety and navigating their complex family dynamics. Robert Jr. was the only child of Mary and her husband, Robert Cosby Sr., whom she married in 1999.
Mary’s personal life has long been a subject of public fascination due to her unconventional marriage to her late grandmother’s second husband, Robert Sr., and her leadership role within their church community in Salt Lake City. Despite the controversies surrounding her “cult leader” allegations and legal battles, Mary remained a central figure on RHOSLC, recently being asked back for the show’s seventh season, which was scheduled to begin filming next week.
Community and Cast Reaction
The Real Housewives community has begun to express condolences as news of the 23-year-old’s death spreads. Robert Jr. had been a recurring presence on the show since its debut, with viewers witnessing his journey through various personal struggles.
Mary Cosby has not yet issued a formal public statement regarding her son’s death. This loss follows the recent passing of Mary’s estranged mother, Rosalind Cazares, adding further grief to the reality star’s life.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates on memorial services and official statements from the Cosby family.