‘RHOSLC’ Mary Cosby’s Son Robert Jr. Passes Away at 23 — What We Know
A sudden loss has shaken the "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" world. A 23-year-old died after a reported medical emergency evolved into something much more grave.
A devastating turn of events has left one "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" star grappling with an unimaginable loss, as troubling new details continue to surface.
Authorities responded to a call at reality TV star Mary Cosby's home involving her son — a moment that would soon take on far greater weight amid mounting legal issues and a recently finalized divorce.
Mary Cosby appears on "Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen" during Season 20 on October 10, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
According to TMZ, the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) responded Monday night, February 23, 2026, to a report of a "full arrest/medical emergency" concerning Mary's son, Robert Cosby Jr.
Authorities say the situation evolved into a death investigation after officers arrived, with a possible overdose noted in the initial response. Firefighters and paramedics were also dispatched. Officials have not confirmed an official cause of death.
In a statement shared with the outlet, Mary and her husband, Robert Sr., said their "beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord," adding that despite their heartbreak, they find comfort in faith and in believing "he is finally at peace."
But what happened inside the home that night adds another heartbreaking layer to the story.
According to People, SLCPD dispatch audio revealed authorities were called to Mary's Utah home just before 6 p.m. local time Monday. In the 911 call recording, a dispatcher can be heard describing a "23-year-old male" who was "not conscious" and "not breathing."
The audio further indicated that one dose of Narcan — an over-the-counter nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses — was administered at the scene. Three police units were dispatched to the residence, based on the recording.
And in the months leading up to his death, his personal life had also taken a dramatic turn.
As previously reported by People, Robert Jr.'s wife, Alexiana Smokoff, filed for divorce in Salt Lake County District Court on November 24, 2025.
Court documents required that both parties refrain from harassing or disturbing one another and outlined restrictions, including prohibitions against domestic violence, interference with services, or misuse of personal identification.
In a statement to the outlet, Robert's attorney Clayton Simms said, "Understanding and recognizing the relationship was difficult for Robert based on his religion and background. To him, marriage is sacred and forever."
Clayton said Robert looked to his parents' 27-year marriage as his model for relationships. Because of that, he had difficulty accepting that his own marriage was over and continued trying to maintain contact with Alexiana.
The attorney added that Robert later took responsibility for his actions and pleaded guilty to several misdemeanor charges.
As his legal issues unfolded, the divorce proceedings moved forward. Us Weekly reported that the court finalized the divorce on January 14, 2026. During a hearing held that same day, Robert — who remained behind bars on assault and trespassing accusations — did not appear, and the judge granted a default divorce decree.
Court records showed the former couple had no children or shared marital property. The court awarded neither party alimony and ordered Robert to pay Alexiana's legal fees. The settlement also included a provision prohibiting him from harassing, threatening, or contacting his ex-wife.
The divorce proceedings marked just one aspect of his mounting legal challenges.
Robert Cosby Jr. appears on "The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" | Source: YouTube/Bravo
Robert Jr.'s challenges unfolded both on camera and off, as TMZ reported. On "RHOSLC," Mary addressed concerns about her son's alleged substance use.
Off-screen, his legal troubles mounted. He pleaded guilty to a 2022 driving under the influence (DUI) charge, and in September 2025, authorities in Utah arrested him on charges including trespassing and assault. He was released from prison in early February 2026.
As the Bravo community mourns one devastating loss, another Hollywood family is facing heartbreak of its own.
Martin Short's daughter, Katherine Short, has died at the age of 42. According to TMZ, she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Martin Short is seen on the set of 'Only Murders in the Building' on March 6, 2025 in New York | Source: Getty Images
Law enforcement sources told the outlet that officers with the Los Angeles Police Department and members of the fire department responded to her home in the Hollywood Hills shortly after 6:40 p.m. on Monday. She was found deceased at the scene in what quickly became a heartbreaking tragedy.
A representative for the family confirmed her passing in a statement to TMZ, saying the family is overwhelmed with grief, devastated by the loss, and asking for privacy as they navigate this painful time. The grieving father also shared a message on Facebook, laying bare his broken heart in an emotional tribute that stunned fans.
Martin Short visits SiriusXM Studio on May 17, 2011, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
He wrote, "It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of our beloved daughter, Katherine Hartley Short. There are no words for the depth of this loss. Our family is devastated, and we ask for privacy as we grieve this unimaginable heartbreak. Katherine was the light of our lives full of warmth, kindness, and a joy that touched everyone she met. That light will never fade in our hearts. Forever loved. Forever our daughter."
Katherine was the eldest child of Martin and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who died in 2010 from ovarian cancer — another profound loss that deeply affected the family.