Mary Cosby's Son Opened Up About Substance Abuse Struggles Before His Death

A resurfaced clip from 'Real Housewives of Salt Lake City' shows Robert Cosby Jr. admitting he 'wanted to die' amid his drug use.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Following the death of Mary Cosby's 23-year-old son, Robert Cosby Jr., a resurfaced clip from the reality show 'Real Housewives of Salt Lake City' sheds light on his struggle with substance abuse. In the emotional conversation, Robert revealed he was taking Xanax and Adderall, and had tried harder drugs like acid, Molly, and cocaine. He told his mother Mary that he 'wanted to die' at one point, and she pleaded with him to get help, saying his death would 'kill' her.

Why it matters

The resurfaced clip provides a heartbreaking look at the personal challenges Robert faced with addiction, and the pain his mother Mary experienced in trying to help him. It highlights the ongoing issue of substance abuse, especially among young people, and the difficult conversations families must have around mental health and getting treatment.

The details

In the clip, Robert admitted to taking Xanax to help him sleep, then using Adderall to 'balance out the Xanax.' He also revealed trying harder drugs like acid, Molly, and cocaine after being offered them at a party. When his mother Mary expressed concern, Robert told her 'I wanted to die,' saying he felt like 'a stain' and that 'this world wasn't for me.' Mary pleaded with him, saying his death would 'kill' her, and that he was her 'gift' and 'the only thing that ever made me happy.'

  • Robert Cosby Jr. died on Monday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Mary Cosby

The star of 'Real Housewives of Salt Lake City' and the mother of Robert Cosby Jr.

Robert Cosby Jr.

Mary Cosby's 23-year-old son who struggled with substance abuse and tragically passed away.

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What they’re saying

“I won't judge you. I just feel very disappointed with myself. I feel like I let him down somewhere. I'm very aware, and I do know that Robert did smoke weed. I do know he would eat edibles, but yet I just trusted him in my mind thinking that's where he would stop, and I was clearly wrong.”

— Mary Cosby, Reality TV Star (Real Housewives of Salt Lake City)

“I wanted to die. I just felt like a stain. I felt this world wasn't for me ... You're the only reason I didn't kill myself.”

— Robert Cosby Jr. (Real Housewives of Salt Lake City)

“You're my friend. You're my son. You're my gift. God gave you to me. You're the only thing that ever made me happy. Before I had you I was never happy. You came, and you were so real. It was everything I hoped for in a person.”

— Mary Cosby, Reality TV Star (Real Housewives of Salt Lake City)

What’s next

The cause of Robert Cosby Jr.'s death has not been officially announced, but authorities responded to a call about a possible overdose. The Cosby family is likely grieving this tragic loss.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking story highlights the devastating impact of substance abuse, especially on young people and their families. It underscores the importance of open conversations around mental health, addiction, and getting proper support and treatment. The Cosby family's pain is a somber reminder of the urgent need for greater resources and compassion in addressing these critical issues.