The entertainment world is mourning the sudden loss of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the Emmy-nominated actor best known for his iconic role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show. Warner tragically passed away at the age of 54 following an accidental drowning on Sunday afternoon at Playa Cocles, a beach on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.
According to Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Department, Warner was pulled out to sea by a strong current while swimming. Despite efforts by beachgoers and emergency responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Warner rose to fame in the 1980s as the witty and relatable son of Cliff and Clair Huxtable, played by Bill Cosby and Phylicia Rashad. His portrayal of Theo earned him an Emmy nomination and made him a household name across America and beyond. Over the years, Warner built a rich and diverse career, starring in shows like Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines, The Resident, and lending his voice to The Magic School Bus. He also directed episodes of several beloved series and won a Grammy in 2015 for Best Traditional R&B Performance.
Beyond the screen, Warner was a poet, musician, and advocate for authentic Black representation in the media. His recent podcast, Not All Hood, explored themes of identity, mental health, and masculinity in the Black community.