‘The Cosby Show’ Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner Mourned by Friends, Fans, and Former Costars After Drowning Death at 54

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Notable figures, past co-stars, and admirers are voicing their sorrow following the death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best recognized for his role as Theodore “Theo” Huxtable on “The Cosby Show.” Tragically, the actor passed away due to drowning in Costa Rica at the age of 54.

As a teenager, Warner gained prominence on the popular sitcom “The Cosby Show,” landing him an Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actor in 1986. Lately, he has been seen on various television programs like “Grown-ish,” “9-1-1,” and “Alert: Missing Persons Unit.” Additionally, he has expanded his horizons by venturing into different areas.

Beginning in 2024, Warner joined forces with Candace Kelley and Weusi Baraka to host the podcast “Not All Hood,” discussing the lives of African Americans in the United States. Earlier in 2015, he was awarded a Grammy for Best Traditional R&B Performance as part of Robert Glasper Experiment, Lalah Hathaway, and their cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Jesus Children.” In 2012, he received the NAACP Image Award for his role in the sitcom “Reed Between the Lines,” where he portrayed a professor at New York University.

According to reports from The Associated Press, it was confirmed by Costa Rican officials that Warner tragically drowned on Sunday while enjoying a swim at a Caribbean coast beach in Costa Rica.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Eddie Griffin, known for his role with Warner on the TV series “Malcolm & Eddie,” paid tribute to the actor.

I’m utterly shocked and saddened. His passing has deeply touched me. An admirable man, a remarkable talent. We were fortunate to have him as part of the 911 team. My heart goes out to his family in this difficult time, sending them my love.” (Jennifer Love Hewitt posted on her Instagram story)

American journalist and cohost of NBC’s “Today Show” Al Roker called Warner a “lovely young man.” 

He and I have been acquainted since the era of The Cosby Show, as stated by Roker. Our sympathies are extended to his mother and his loved ones at this difficult time.

Essence, a popular lifestyle magazine with Black ownership, expressed deep sadness in announcing the actor’s demise. They acknowledged his work as significant, explaining that it played a crucial role in reshaping screen portrayals of Black boyhood. Through humor, vulnerability, and depth, he enriched eight seasons on “The Cosby Show.” This was the sentiment shared by Essence in their statement.

Actress Niecy Nash paid tribute to actor Warner on her Instagram, acknowledging his outstanding performance in the popular ’80s sitcom by describing him as the “pillar” of the show. Her caption read, “Unforgettable. We’ll miss you. Rest peacefully.

Actor Jamie Foxx expressed himself as ‘left without words’ upon hearing the news, paying tribute to Warner through a post on his Instagram. “May you find peace, my friend,” he penned down.

Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson, a former NBA star, expressed sadness on X about the death of our cherished friend Malcolm. Whenever I crossed paths with him, we shared insightful and enjoyable discussions about basketball, life, and business. He leaves behind a significant void. Sending prayers to his family and loved ones during this challenging period, he added a folded hands emoji to express his prayers.

Actress Tracee Ellis Ross, a fellow cast member from “Reed Between the Lines,” expressed deep sorrow in her heart upon hearing the news.

She commented: ‘You were such a wonderful actor and friend – always warm, considerate, attentive, kind-hearted, deep in thought, amusing, and refined.’

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2025-07-22 01:17