Top Real Housewives star's son dies aged 23 after prison release

The son of a Real Housewives star has passed away aged 23. Robert Jr, son of Mary Cosby, has died in Utah, with the circumstances surrounding his death remaining unclear. Authorities in Salt Lake City are understood to have attended a call regarding a "full arrest/medical emergency" on Monday evening. TMZ has reported that the incident became a death investigation when officers arrived at the scene.

Mary has paid tribute, saying in a statement: "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."

Robert had appeared on RHOSLC numerous times over the years as his mother's life was documented on camera. During the fourth series, a plotline revealed how Mary learnt he had wed in secret without informing his mother. The ceremony reportedly occurred in August 2022 at a Utah courthouse. Several months ago, Robert's wife, Alexiana Smokoff, initiated divorce proceedings. The couple's substance abuse problems featured in the programme. In a poignant scene during the fifth series, Robert Jr spoke candidly to his mother about his battle with addiction. During the episode, Robert Jr. confessed to Mary that drugs made him feel "seasoned" when he felt otherwise empty.

The exchange was subsequently regarded as amongst the most powerful moments in the programme's history. Mary told camera it was a "cry for help" and Robert subsequently enrolled in a 30-day rehabilitation programme. Following the announcement of his death, fans expressed their grief on social media. One Twitter/X user posted: "the mary cosby news oh my god i can't imagine the pain she's in right now. "Another commented: "She deserves so much love and grace, especially because she OWNED any mistakes she made and was actively working on doing better for Robert Jr.

"A third shared: "Omggggg. Nooooo. This is absolutely heartbreaking. Addiction is a terrible thing to deal with for the individual and family members. I'm so sick for Mary and her family. Deepest condolences and prayers," reports the Mirror.

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Robert's death comes just weeks after he was released from Salt Lake County Metro Jail after serving two months behind bars.

He had previously been arrested for a motoring offence in 2022, to which he pleaded guilty. Mary had previously discussed her son on the show, describing him as the "perfect child" at school.

During a confessional on the programme, she stated: "He was very good in school.

He got straight A's all the way up until he graduated. Mary said of him: "When he set his mind to do something, he did it. He was like our prize, very smart, very advanced. That's the Robert I know, and that's the Robert I'm trying to reach."