Production has resumed on a new season of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, but one of its most recognizable cast members is absent. Mary Cosby is not currently filming following the death of her son, Robert Cosby Jr., who died Feb. 23 at age 23.
Filming for the Bravo reality series’ seventh season began this week after a brief pause prompted by the tragedy. According to reports, cameras resumed rolling while Cosby remains away from the production.
Sources close to the show said producers halted filming soon after the news broke. The pause allowed cast members and crew to process the loss and give Cosby time to grieve privately.
Robert Cosby Jr. was the only child of Mary Cosby and her husband, Robert Cosby Sr. He had previously appeared on the show alongside his mother.
Filming Moves Forward Without Cosby
Production resumed with the remaining cast gathering for their first group scenes. Cosby did not participate in those initial filming sessions.
Bravo has not released an official cast lineup for the upcoming season. However, several returning housewives were expected to begin filming shortly after the brief hiatus ended.
Industry sources said the network intends to give Cosby space before determining whether she will return later in the season.
Producers reportedly plan to “follow her lead” regarding any future participation.
Cosby first joined The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City during the show’s debut season. She appeared in the first two seasons before stepping away, then returned in later installments.
Her storyline often included deeply personal moments involving her family life, including candid conversations with her son about his struggles.
A Difficult Journey in the Public Eye
Robert Cosby Jr. had previously spoken about challenges with substance use and mental health. His journey was discussed during emotional scenes on the series.
In one conversation featured on the show, he reflected on his experiences with addiction and the impact it had on his life.
“I couldn’t even feel it,” he said while discussing drug use. “I couldn’t feel it at all.”
The young man had also faced legal issues in recent years tied to personal struggles and relationship conflicts.
Despite the challenges, Cosby often expressed concern and hope for her son’s recovery. Their relationship was frequently portrayed as complex but deeply loving.
News of his death sent shockwaves through the Real Housewives community. Fellow cast members and Bravo personalities have shared condolences and support for Cosby.
The seventh season of the Salt Lake City installment was already preparing to begin filming when the tragedy occurred. The production pause was intended to respect the family’s mourning period.