Former Real Housewives of Atlanta star Cynthia Bailey is still “processing” the death of Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Mary Cosby’s son, Robert Cosby Jr.
“It’s so hard to talk about this,” Cynthia, 59, said during the Monday, March 2, episode of her “Humble Brag” podcast. “I was really paralyzed by this news when I got it, and I didn’t really know what to do, what to say.”
Cynthia said she found out about Robert Jr.’s death with the rest of the world, so she called Mary.
“To my surprise, she picked right up. Then I was really surprised, because I didn’t expect her to pick up,” Cynthia continued. “First I was like, ‘You didn’t have to pick up. I just wanted to call.’”
Cynthia explained that she “didn’t feel like a text was the right thing to do” considering the circumstances.
The RHOA alum recalled what she told Mary on the phone.
“I just wanted to call you and say, ‘I love you, and I’m here for you, and I’m so sorry for you and your family,’” Cynthia said, as her cohost, Crystal Kung Minkoff, got emotional about the “unbelievable” situation. “What was so amazing … it’s like the strength that you have to have as a mom.”
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Cynthia said that Mary told her, “It’s OK,” repeatedly.
“I think there’s levels, there’s shock, there’s just processing the reality of the situation,” Cynthia continued. “I know I’m doing a horrible job of trying to explain this to you guys, but I just don’t know any other way to do it. I just wanted to recognize that we are all supporting Mary Cosby and her family. This was a huge hit for the Bravo universe. She’s such a big part of it.”
Us Weekly confirmed on Wednesday, February 25, that Robert Jr. died at age 23. The Salt Lake City Police Department confirmed to Us that authorities responded to a call for an overdose at the home of Mary and her husband, Robert Cosby Sr., home early last week. Robert Jr. was found deceased when they arrived.
“Our beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord,” Mary shared in a statement to Us. “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.”
Cynthia explained during Monday’s “Humble Brag” podcast episode that she and Mary became friends while filming The Real Housewives Ultimate Road Trip earlier this year.
“I remember asking about him,” Cynthia said of Robert Jr. “I think at that point he was in jail or just getting out. She was very optimistic. We were all excited for him to get better. I guess I don’t even know the right words.”
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Robert Jr. was arrested late last year after violating a protective order filed by his ex-wife. He announced his release from jail with a return to Instagram on February 6.
Robert Jr. also struggled with addiction prior to his death, which was chronicled during the past two seasons of RHOSLC. During a season 5 episode, which aired in November 2024, Robert Jr. disclosed his issues with substance abuse with Mary on camera.
“At first, I was like, ‘I’m going to just stick to natural stuff.’ Then, I went to a party, and someone gave me Xanax. I started buying it,” he said at the time. “Then, I started doing Xanax with acid and then molly with Xanax. I really like Xanax, so I mix it with everything.”
Mary has been praised for being so honest about her son’s battle on the show.
“It’s a reality show, we’re supposed to show our reality, but when I tell you to be able to show that was just really powerful for so many other families that are going through that type of issue with that type of addiction,” Cynthia said on Monday. “My heart goes out to her and her family, and I was really happy that I got a chance to actually talk to her. She’s pushing through and she knows and appreciates everyone’s love and support.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
