Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Beloved ‘Cosby Show’ Star, Dies at 54 in Tragic Drowning Accident

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the actor best known for portraying the charismatic Theodore “Theo” Huxtable on the groundbreaking sitcom The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54. According to reports first published by TMZ and later confirmed by PEOPLE, Warner drowned while swimming on vacation with his family in Costa Rica. No additional details have been made public at this time. His representatives have not yet issued a statement.

Warner rose to fame in the 1980s and 90s as the youngest Huxtable son on The Cosby Show, a role that earned him critical acclaim and widespread affection from fans across generations. Although he had acting credits prior to the NBC hit series, his nearly 200-episode tenure as Theo solidified his place in television history.

In a 2023 interview with PEOPLE, Warner expressed pride in his work on the show, despite the controversy that later engulfed his on-screen father, Bill Cosby. “Regardless of how some people may feel about the show now,” he said, “I’m still proud of the legacy and having been a part of such an iconic show that had such a profound impact on — first and foremost, Black culture — but also American culture.”

Following his time on The Cosby Show, Warner built a varied and successful career across film and television. He appeared in action thrillers like Drop Zone, dramas such as Restaurant, and adventure films like Fool’s Gold. His television roles spanned genres and generations, including guest appearances and recurring parts in acclaimed series like American Horror Story, Key and Peele, Major Crimes, and Suits.

Warner’s most recent long-running television role was as Dr. AJ Austin on The Resident, where he appeared in nearly 100 episodes. His portrayal of the driven and complex cardiothoracic surgeon brought new acclaim and introduced him to a new audience of fans.

Throughout his career, Warner remained a strong advocate for Black excellence in entertainment and beyond. His performances often centered on nuanced, intelligent, and relatable portrayals of Black men, a legacy that continues to influence actors and creators today.

Warner’s death marks a significant loss not only to those who knew him personally, but also to millions who grew up watching his work and felt seen through his characters.

He is survived by his family, friends, colleagues, and a powerful legacy that endures through decades of storytelling, laughter, and inspiration.