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Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his iconic role as Theo Huxtable on "The Cosby Show," has died at 54. Warner drowned off the coast of Costa Rica on July 20 while vacationing with family. According to Costa Rican National Police, the actor was caught in a strong current near Cocles beach in Limon. He was pulled from the water by beachgoers but could not be revived. His official cause of death is listed as asphyxia by drowning.
Warner rose to fame in 1984 as the youngest son of Cliff and Clair Huxtable in the groundbreaking sitcom that ran for eight seasons. He remained proud of the series, telling PEOPLE in 2023, "The Cosby Show is something that we are all still very proud of." Despite the cloud cast by Bill Cosby's legal controversies, Warner consistently separated his appreciation of the show's cultural impact from the actions of its lead. "Regardless of how some people may feel about the show now, I'm still proud of the legacy," he said.
After "The Cosby Show," Warner built a steady career. He co-starred in "Malcolm & Eddie" (1996–2000), led "Reed Between the Lines," and had roles in "Major Crimes," "Suits," and "The Resident," where he played Dr. AJ "The Raptor" Austin. Warner also lent his voice to over 40 episodes of PBS' "The Magic School Bus" and won a Grammy in 2015 for Best Traditional R&B Performance.
In 2024, he launched the podcast "Not All Hood," aimed at exploring mental health issues within the Black community. In an interview, he said, "It's a place where I feel safe enough to be as vulnerable as I allow myself to be." Warner was joined on the podcast by Weusi Baraka and Candace Kelley.
Beyond acting and music, Warner was praised for his commitment to authenticity. He consistently advocated for truthful storytelling, once saying, "The humor is in the truth. When you play the truth of the moment, you'll find the humor."
Warner is survived by his wife and daughter, whose identities he chose to keep private. His sudden death marks a tragic loss of a thoughtful performer who influenced television, music, and public dialogue.
Memorial plans have not yet been announced.
