Real Housewives of Salt Lake City original star Mary Cosby’s son Robert Cosby Jr dies age 23

Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Mary Cosby says her “heart is aching” after her son Robert Cosby Jr died at the age of 23 following an opioid overdose.

Police were called to Mary’s Utah home just before 6pm on Monday, where Robert was found “not conscious” and “not breathing”, according to police dispatch audio obtained by People.

The audio also revealed Robert was given one dose of Narcan, an over-the-counter nasal spray used to reverse life-endangering opioid overdoses, as he was in a “full arrest/medical emergency”.

On Wednesday, Mary shared a statement about his tragic death on social media to her more than 515,000 Instagram followers.

“Our beloved son Robert Jr has been called home to the Lord,” she wrote.

“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.”

Friends, fans and The Real Housewives cast members Angie Katsanevas, Meredith Marks, Heather Gay, and Whitney Rose soon took to the comments section of the grim post to offer condolences and support for the Cosby family.

The Real Housewives host and producer Andy Cohen said: “I love you Mary. You did your very best. We are all praying for your family.”

American designer and socialite Sutton Stracke said she is praying for clarity and peace for the family.

“My deepest sorry and condolences go out to you and your family,” she said on Instagram.

“May Robert rest in peace without pain in Heaven in the arms of our Father. And may you, Mary, be comforted in some way knowing that you are surrounded by so many in love and shared grief.”

Robert had battled a prescription and recreational drug addiction since he was 16-years-old after trying Xanax at a party.

However, in December 2024, Mary revealed her son completed a month-long stay in rehab and “came out a new person”.

But in September last year, the law caught up with him after he was arrested for several criminal offences, including trespassing and assault.

In November he was arrested again after being accused of violating a pretrial protective order and pleaded guilty to eight of the 14 charges he was facing.

He was released from jail on February 3.

Two weeks before his death, Mary shared a heartfelt Instagram post dedicated to Robert.

“#godfirst Love you all. My Beautiful Son...I love him sm.”

In light of Robert’s death, production on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City season seven has been halted out of respect, with filming set to start this week.

If you or someone you know needs help, phone SANE Australia Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).