Malcolm-Jamal Warner, recognized for his role as Bill Cosby’s on-screen son in the popular NBC series “The Cosby Show,” has passed away at 54 due to an accidental drowning while vacationing with his family in Central America. Reports from TMZ and People initially broke the news of his demise.
According to the Associated Press, the Costa Rica Judicial Investigation Department disclosed that Warner drowned on Sunday at Playa Grande de Cocles in Limon province on the Caribbean coast. Despite being rescued by beachgoers, first responders from Costa Rica’s Red Cross discovered him unresponsive and subsequently transported him to the morgue.
Although CBC News reached out for confirmation, Persona PR, an international media and communications agency, declined to provide any statements at this time.
Warner portrayed Theodore (Theo) Huxtable, the son of Cliff and Claire Huxtable (played by Cosby and Phylicia Rashad), on “The Cosby Show” during its airing from 1984 to 1992. His performance earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series in 1986.
In recent years, Warner made guest appearances on various television shows, including a three-episode appearance on Fox’s “Alert: Missing Persons Unit” this year and a four-episode run on ABC’s “9-1-1” in 2024.
After the news of Warner’s passing emerged, tributes flooded social media. Magic Johnson, NBA Hall of Famer, expressed his sadness and reminisced about their shared admiration for “The Cosby Show” and Warner’s subsequent work. Viola Davis and Niecy Nash, among others, also paid tribute to Warner, praising his impact on television, particularly through his portrayal of Theo Huxtable.
Renowned for his significant contribution to “The Cosby Show,” Warner’s legacy was celebrated for redefining Black boyhood on screen. His talent and spirit left an enduring mark on his audience, with many acknowledging his influence in the entertainment industry.
Warner’s acting career began early, with appearances in various TV series and films, including “A Different World,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” and “American Horror Story: Freak Show.” Additionally, he starred in two sitcoms, “Malcolm & Eddie” and “Reed Between the Lines,” where he also served as a producer.
Apart from acting, Warner was a poet and musician who won a Grammy for best traditional R&B performance in 2015. He led a private life, choosing not to disclose the identities of his wife and daughter. His passing is mourned by the entertainment industry, with colleagues and fans remembering him fondly for his contributions to television and music.