Mary Cosby Pays Tribute to Son Robert After His Death at 23

The 'Real Housewives of Salt Lake City' star's only child passed away on February 23.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Mary Cosby, star of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, shared a heartbreaking tribute to her son Robert Cosby Jr. following his death at age 23 on February 23. Cosby played a cover of Cyndi Lauper's 'Time After Time' in the background of the tribute, writing 'I'm Going to miss you bubs' alongside a throwback photo of herself and Robert. The Salt Lake City Police Department responded to reports of a 23-year-old man 'not breathing' at Cosby's home the night of his death.

Why it matters

The death of Mary Cosby's only child is a tragic loss for the reality TV star and her family. Cosby had previously spoken about her son's struggle with drug addiction, highlighting the challenges many families face in dealing with substance abuse issues. The news has also paused production on the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, underscoring the personal impact this has had on Cosby and the show.

The details

According to dispatch audio, authorities were called to Cosby's Utah home just before 6 p.m. on the day of Robert Jr.'s death, where they found a '23-year-old male' presumed to be Robert Jr. 'not conscious' and 'not breathing.' The audio revealed the man was given a dose of Narcan, a nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses, as he was in a 'full arrest/medical emergency.' Cosby had previously spoken about her son's battle with addiction, noting that her husband Robert Cosby Sr. played a key role in supporting their family through this difficult time.

  • Robert Cosby Jr. died on February 23, 2026.
  • Cosby announced her son's death in a social media post on February 25, 2026.

The players

Mary Cosby

The star of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, who is mourning the loss of her 23-year-old son Robert Cosby Jr.

Robert Cosby Jr.

Mary Cosby's only child, who passed away at the age of 23.

Robert Cosby Sr.

Mary Cosby's husband, who played an instrumental role in supporting the family through their son's struggle with drug addiction.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“#godfirst #love #forever I'm Going to miss you bubs❤️🙏😢.”

— Mary Cosby (Instagram)

“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.”

— Andy Cohen, Real Housewives Executive Producer (Threads)

What’s next

Production on the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City has been put on pause following the news of Robert Cosby Jr.'s passing.

The takeaway

The tragic loss of Mary Cosby's son highlights the devastating impact of substance abuse issues on families, and the importance of providing support and resources for those struggling with addiction. Cosby's tribute to her son underscores the profound grief she is experiencing, and the empathy and compassion the community has shown for her during this difficult time.