How Mary Cosby handled filming ‘RHOSLC’ after son Robert Jr.’s tragic death

Mary Cosby handled the aftermath of her son Robert Jr.’s death “so beautifully” while shooting “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” Season 7, according to co-star Meredith Marks.

“Mary, you’ll see, her strength is so inspirational,” Marks said on the Australian radio show “Jase, Lauren & Clint” on Thursday.

“And I think it will be really incredible to watch,” the Bravo star added.

But Marks, 54, acknowledged “it will be very tough” for Cosby, 53, to relive the family tragedy on the upcoming season, which premieres Sept. 16.

Despite that, Marks believes the reality show “gave [Cosby] another focus during a difficult time.”

“That’s the downside to reality TV,” Marks explained. “You relive things later.”

Cosby’s 23-year-old son was found dead on Feb. 23 after officers “responded to an overdose call that turned into a death investigation.”

Robert Jr. was unconscious, not breathing, and given one dose of Narcan before he died, according to a 911 call.

Cosby and her husband, Robert Sr., released a joint statement at the time, writing, “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,” the couple added.

Robert Jr.’s estranged wife, Alexiana Smokoff, filed for divorce in November 2025 after three years of marriage. The exes secretly tied the knot in a Utah courthouse in August 2022.

Robert Jr.’s addiction battle was explored on Seasons 5 and 6 of “RHOSLC.”

In the Season 7 trailer, Cosby thanked her co-stars for supporting her after her son’s death.

“I could not have got through without you guys,” she said in a scene. “You all was there for me.”

Marks and Cosby are returning for the new season alongside Heather Gay, Lisa Barlow, Whitney Rose, Angie Katsanevas and Bronwyn Newport.

“RHOSLC” Season 7 premieres Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo.

If you or someone you care about is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).