Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has died.
He was 54.
According to a source close to the family, Warner drowned while swimming during a vacation in Costa Rica.
His representatives have not yet issued a formal statement.
Widespread acclaim
Warner rose to fame in the 1980s as the beloved son of Bill Cosby’s character in the Emmy Award-winning sitcom The Cosby Show, which ran from 1984 to 1992.
His portrayal of Theo Huxtable earned him widespread acclaim and cemented his status as a household name in American television.
Despite controversy surrounding Cosby in recent years, Warner remained proud of the show’s impact.
In a 2023 interview, he said, “Regardless of how some people may feel about the show now, I’m still proud of the legacy… that had such a profound impact on – first and foremost, Black culture – but also American culture.”
Mental health
Beyond The Cosby Show, Warner built a respected career with roles in Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines, Suits, Major Crimes, The Resident, and 9-1-1.
His most recent work included co-hosting the mental health-focused podcast Not All Hood, launched in 2024.
Warner was known not only for his talent and professionalism, but also for his thoughtful contributions to discussions around mental health, identity, and representation in the entertainment industry.
He is survived by his wife and daughter, whose identities he kept private throughout his career.
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