Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who became a household name as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has died at 54 after an accidental drowning in Costa Rica.
The news was first reported by People magazine, which confirmed Warner was on a family vacation when the incident occurred.
According to sources close to the family, Warner had gone swimming off the coast while vacationing with relatives. Emergency responders were unable to revive him after he was pulled from the water. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and fans around the world who grew up watching him as the beloved Huxtable son.
Warner found fame in the 1980s as the only son of Cliff and Clair Huxtable, portrayed by Bill Cosby and Phylicia Rashad. His portrayal of Theo, a character many viewers saw as relatable and grounded, helped define The Cosby Show as one of television's most influential sitcoms.
The show ran for eight seasons from 1984 to 1992, with Warner present throughout the series' entire run. His work earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, a significant recognition at a time when few young Black actors received such acknowledgment.
Beyond his breakout role, Warner carved out a multifaceted career spanning television, music, and production. He starred in sitcoms like Malcolm & Eddie and dramas such as The Resident, while also taking recurring roles in critically acclaimed series including Suits and The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story. His voice was instantly recognizable to a generation of children who heard him narrate episodes of The Magic School Bus.
A passionate musician, Warner's talents extended beyond acting. He was a Grammy Award winner, earning the honor in 2015 for Best Traditional R&B Performance as part of a collaboration with Robert Glasper and Lalah Hathaway. His work as a spoken-word artist and jazz bassist further showcased his creative range.
Warner was known for guarding his private life, though he occasionally spoke about the importance of family, fatherhood, and Black representation in Hollywood. His death leaves behind a wife and daughter, whose identities he kept out of the public eye.
Warner's publicist has not issued an official statement. Fans and celebrities have flooded social media with tributes, mourning the loss of a figure who shaped modern American television.
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