Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Beloved Star of ‘The Cosby Show,’ Dies at 54
Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the iconic 1980s sitcom The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54. The actor tragically drowned while swimming off the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica on Sunday, according to a report by the Associated Press citing Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Department.
Warner became a household name as the charming and relatable teenage son of Cliff Huxtable, played by Bill Cosby. The Cosby Show, which aired from 1984 to 1992 on NBC, was a cultural juggernaut that reshaped how Black families were portrayed on television. The show’s finale was such a major event that it earned front-page coverage in The New York Times.
After his breakout role as Theo, Warner continued his acting career with success. He starred in the comedy series Malcolm & Eddie in the late 1990s and more recently had recurring roles on medical drama The Resident.
Throughout his decades-long career, Warner was known not just for his acting talent, but also for his deep voice, poetic performances, and behind-the-scenes work as a director and musician.
His sudden passing has shocked fans and the entertainment industry alike, leaving many to reflect on the legacy of an actor who grew up on screen—and into the hearts of millions.
