Mary Cosby's Son's Ex-Wife Breaks Silence After Learning Of His Tragic Death
By Jacquez Printup on February 27, 2026 at 3:30 PM EST
Mary Cosby's son's ex-wife, Alexiana Arian Smokoff, has broken her silence after learning of his untimely death. Based on previous reports, Robert and Smokoff's time together was contentious; however, his passing has her admittedly "shaken up."
Mary Cosby's Son's Ex-Wife Breaks Silence After The 23-Year-Old Passed Away
Speaking with Us Weekly, a source close to Smokoff said she was aware of Robert Cosby's passing, and revealed she is "pretty shaken up." They added, "Everyone is upset. Everyone loved Robert."
According to a previous report from The Blast, Mary's son, Robert, was found dead in late February 2026 after Salt Lake City police responded to a call of a potential overdose.
Mary and Robert spoke candidly about the latter's struggle with addiction during previous episodes of "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City," sending a wave of sadness through the Bravo community.
Mary Cosby Said Her Son Had An Altercation With His Ex-Wife, Leading To His Arrest
Smokoff filed for divorce from Robert in November 2025, according to Us Weekly. During the "RHOSLC" season 6 reunion, Mary said Robert was arrested after violating a protection order.
"He went back anyway thinking that she wants him to come back and save her. I don’t know where he’s getting that from, delusional," she told Andy Cohen. "Every time he’d go back over there, they’d call the police and they’d arrest him."
Mary went on to say that Robert's last encounter there resulted in him being tased and locked behind bars. Despite that, Mary admitted that his being in jail gave her more peace because she knew he'd be forced to be sober.
Robert Cosby Told His Mother He Enjoyed Being High During An Emotional Scene On 'RHOSLC'
Before Robert's death, he spoke with Mary about his addiction struggles on an earlier episode, stating he took drugs like Xanax to help him "chill out."
"Then, I started doing Xanax with Acid, and then Molly with Xanax. I really like Xanax, so I mix it with everything. Xanax and cocaine. You know the regular 30mg Oxys? I noticed … this was, like, a turning point for me. I was taking 10 at once, and I couldn't even feel it," he said.
After that episode aired, Mary got candid about how she felt, admitting she only wanted to provide a safe space for him.
"He's everything," Mary said to Cohen. "He was telling me his true feelings. When he said that, I wanted to take everything in me to convince him otherwise. You are beautiful, you're smart, intelligent, he's worthy, you know? I want him to believe that."
Several 'Real Housewives' Stars Rally Around Mary After Learning Of Her Son's Untimely Passing
Online, several Bravolebrities, including Mary's "RHOSLC" co-stars, sent her supportive messages after learning of her son's passing.
Dolores Catania wrote, "Mary, I am so heartbroken for you and your family. May God hold and comfort you at this time. You have my deepest sympathy and prayers."
Cynthia Bailey from "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" added, "So heartbreaking. Sending you so much love and peace, Mary. May he rest in peace. Love you, always."
Angie Katasanevas posted, "Thank you for sharing Bubbs with my family and the world." She stated that Robert Cosby Jr. touched "many hearts" and that his death would affect many. "I am here for you. May God bless your family, and may his memory be eternal. I love you, Mary."
Mary Shared A Statement, Thanking The Public For Their Support
Mary released a statement on social media, confirming Robert's death. She later wrote about relying on her faith to get her through the challenging time.
"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," she said.
Robert's death comes amid production for season 7 of "RHOSLC," according to TMZ.
A source close to Mary shared that the veteran reality star will continue forward with filming despite the tragedy, adding that it's a way to keep the TV personality and church pastor busy.
RIP, Robert.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, immediate, free, confidential, and 24/7 help is available by calling or texting 988 in the United States.
