Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the iconic sitcom The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54. Warner reportedly drowned while swimming during a family vacation in Costa Rica on July 20, 2025. According to local authorities, he was caught in a powerful rip current at Playa Cocles and could not be revived despite immediate rescue efforts and CPR administered by both bystanders and emergency responders.
Warner rose to fame in the 1980s as the lovable and witty Theo on The Cosby Show, earning critical acclaim and an Emmy nomination. He later starred in sitcoms like Malcolm & Eddie and dramas such as The Resident, where he played Dr. AJ Austin. Beyond acting, Warner was a talented poet, musician, and director, even winning a Grammy Award in 2015. His multi-dimensional career made him a respected figure in both Hollywood and the Black arts community.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment world. Former castmates, co-stars, and fans have shared heartfelt memories of Warner’s kindness, talent, and professionalism. Beyoncé honored him with a special tribute on her website, while The Resident co-stars Emily VanCamp and Morris Chestnut described him as a generous spirit and a joy to work with. Social media has been flooded with messages celebrating the impact Warner made across generations.
Warner’s death is a tragic loss to the entertainment industry. From his breakout as a teen actor to his evolution into a thoughtful, artistic adult voice, he remained committed to using his platform to uplift others. He is survived by his partner and daughter. Fans around the world will remember him not only as Theo, but as a passionate artist who left an enduring legacy of excellence.
