Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner Dies at 54 in Costa Rica Drowning

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, died at age 54 after drowning in Costa Rica. Warner was widely praised for his warm, multifaceted portrayals and his contributions beyond acting, including his Grammy-winning musical work and advocacy for positive Black representation. Co-stars and colleagues remembered him as kind, talented, and deeply impactful, highlighting his faith, family devotion, and commitment to purpose. Warner maintained a nuanced perspective on Bill Cosby, recognizing the show's cultural significance while acknowledging the complexities surrounding Cosby's legacy. Theo Huxtable's character was groundbreaking for portraying an authentic Black middle-class adolescent experience, addressing issues like dyslexia with sensitivity and helping shift public perceptions about Black families and education. Warner's career spanned sitcoms, dramas, music, and public speaking, consistently championing excellence and positive representation in the Black community.