We have tragic news to report from the world of television today.
Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner — who was best known for his work on the groundbreaking sitcom The Cosby Show — has passed away.
He was just 54 years old.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner was killed on family vacation, sources confirm
According to a new report from People magazine, Warner was on vacation with his family in Costa Rica when he drowned during a swimming excursion.
Additional details about the accident are unavailable at the time of this writing.
Warner’s career took off back in 1984, when he was cast as Theodore “Theo” Huxtable, the only son of Bill Cosby’s Cliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad’s Claire Huxtable on The Cosby Show.
The series, which ran for eight seasons, is still regarded as one of the most influential in television history.
A beloved actor’s portrayal of an iconic character
Few TV characters of the ’80s and ’90s are as fondly remembered as Theo.
In recent years, Warner acknowledged that the show’s reputation was severely tarnished by Bill Cosby’s conviction on sexual assault charges.
He maintained, however, that the other cast members remain proud of their contribution to television history.
“I know I can speak for all the cast when I say The Cosby Show is something that we are all still very proud of,” he told People in 2023.
“We share a unique experience that keeps us lovingly bonded no matter how much time goes between seeing or hearing from each other,” Warner continued, adding:
“Regardless of how some people may feel about the show now, I’m still proud of the legacy and having been a part of such an iconic show that had such a profound impact on — first and foremost, Black culture — but also American culture.”
Following his time on The Cosby Show, Warner co-starred with comedian Eddie Griffin on the sitcom Malcolm & Eddie, which ran on UPN from 1996 to 2000.
In recent years, he had recurring roles on popular series like Community, American Crime Story, Suits, Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce, and The Resident.
Warner is survived by his wife and one child, whose identities he had opted not to disclose, citing privacy concerns.
Our thoughts go out to his loved ones during this enormously difficult time.