Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his iconic role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54.
According to reports from TMZ and later confirmed by PEOPLE, Warner passed away from an accidental drowning while on a family vacation in Costa Rica. A rep for the actor has not yet publicly commented.
Warner first captured hearts in the 1980s as the only son of Cliff and Clair Huxtable on the NBC sitcom The Cosby Show. Airing from 1984 to 1992, the groundbreaking series helped redefine Black representation on television and remains one of the most culturally impactful sitcoms in American history. In 1986, Warner earned an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, becoming one of the youngest performers ever to be nominated in the category.
Reflecting on the legacy of the show in a 2023 interview with PEOPLE, Warner said, “I know I can speak for all the cast when I say The Cosby Show is something that we are all still very proud of… Regardless of how some people may feel about the show now, 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 breakout role, Warner built a multifaceted career across television, film, music, and podcasting. He co-starred in the UPN sitcom Malcolm & Eddie alongside Eddie Griffin, appeared in Reed Between the Lines with Tracee Ellis Ross, and most recently had roles in 9-1-1, The Resident, Major Crimes, and Suits. He was also a Grammy Award winner, taking home the honor in 2015 for Best Traditional R&B Performance for his work alongside Robert Glasper and Lalah Hathaway.
In 2023, Warner launched the podcast Not All Hood, co-hosted by Weusi Baraka and Candace Kelley. The show explored mental health and identity within the Black community, with Warner sharing that it was a place where he felt “safe enough to be as vulnerable as I allow myself to be.”
Warner’s legacy as an artist extended beyond the screen. He was also a director, poet, musician, and tireless advocate for Black creativity and well-being.
The actor kept his personal life out of the spotlight but is survived by his wife and daughter, whose identities he never publicly disclosed. He often spoke of the importance of maintaining privacy and balance in an industry that rarely allows either.
Warner’s death is a tremendous loss to the world of entertainment and to the millions who grew up watching his work. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, cultural impact, and artistry that helped shape generations.
Rest in power, Malcolm-Jamal Warner.