Mary Cosby’s son Robert Cosby Jr. dies at 23 after Salt Lake City police investigate
mary cosby and her husband, Robert Cosby Sr., said their “beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord, ” after the 23‑year‑old’s death in Utah. The Salt Lake City police treated a reported overdose as a death investigation, and family and colleagues have issued public condolences.
Family statement and timing of announcement
Mary Cosby and Robert Cosby Sr. issued a statement saying, “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. ” That statement was made public on Feb. 25.
Salt Lake City police response, overdose call and investigation
The Salt Lake City police department confirmed Robert Cosby Jr. ’s death and said officers responded Monday to an overdose call at about 6: 14 p. m., which then became a death investigation. One account says police responded Monday night to a call described as a "full arrest/medical emergency" for a 23‑year‑old male. Fire and paramedics were dispatched. The cause of death is unclear in the provided context.
His appearances on the show and public struggles with substance use
Robert made appearances alongside his mother on the Salt Lake City–based reality series; Mary joined the program in season one and Robert appeared a few times over the years. During season five he spoke on camera about his substance‑abuse problems and said he began taking drugs, including Xanax, acid, Molly and cocaine, at 16. In that conversation he said, “I wanted to die at the time, ” and Mary replied, “You know how that would kill me?” Cast and producers called the exchange a standout moment within the franchise.
Rehab, relapse and recent jail time
Context in the current season included Mary discussing Robert’s relapse after he attended rehab in 2024. In December of that year Mary confirmed in a televised appearance that her son had been in rehab, saying, “He did an excellent job. He came out a new person. ” During the season six reunion, which aired Jan. 20, Mary revealed Robert was in jail on eight charges, including an allegation of violating a protective order involving his wife, Alexiana Smokoff. In early February Robert celebrated his release from jail and Mary marked the occasion with social‑media posts that read, “Thank you all for your prayers, ” and “Love you. ” One report also noted he got out of prison in February.
Legal history, marriage and family developments
Robert had multiple legal run‑ins. He was arrested in Utah in September on a number of alleged crimes, including trespassing and assault. He was previously arrested for DUI in 2022; police at that time said he did not have a license and disobeyed traffic laws. He later pleaded guilty to the DUI. Robert’s wedding to Alexiana Smokoff reportedly took place in August 2022 at a Utah courthouse, and his death came only a couple months after Smokoff filed for divorce.
Condolences from colleagues and industry figures
A statement from the show’s network said, “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. ” Andy Cohen wrote, “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. ” Mary’s co‑stars and many personalities from the program shared their condolences. An apparent attempt to note a reaction from Heather Gay in one account is incomplete and unclear in the provided context.
