Gen Xers mourn drowning death of The Cosby Show's Theo actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner
And Malcolm-Jamal Warner's 'Theo Huxtable' was the character Generation X most related to. Fans took quickly to social media on Monday as news of Warner's accidental drowning in Costa Rica spread.
'It's like losing one of us,' said Harriet Cammock, a 58-year-old Detroit author and speaker. 'This is the thing with television. When you're watching people every week on television, you think you know them and you're related to them.'
Warner was swimming Sunday afternoon at Playa Cocles in Costa Rica's Limon province when a current pulled him deeper into the Caribbean, according to that country's Judicial Investigation Department.
First responders found him without vital signs.
'The Cosby Show' was groundbreaking and a ratings giant, drawing in viewers across racial, cultural and economic backgrounds. The show ran for 197 episodes from 1984 to 1992. In 1986, Warner earned an Emmy nomination for supporting actor in a comedy.
The show starring Bill Cosby as Cliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad as his wife Clair and 'made the wider society aware that there are Black people who live like white people do,' said Cammock, who is Black. 'The perception that we don't live like they do was hurtful.'
Lynn Reasonover, 62, of Oak Lawn, Illinois, began receiving messages Monday afternoon about Warner's death. Her initial thoughts were 'Nope, didn't happen.'
'Then, I kept seeing the news flashes and friends started sending texts,' Reasonover said. 'So, it's sinking in. Makes you realize how much some celebrities help shape our memories. His work had such a huge impact. I'm feeling a personal loss because we grew up with him. It's like losing a part of our childhood.'
Reasonover saw much of her family in the Huxtables where both parents were professionals who valued education and handled family issues with understanding and love.
'They had similar problems to what we experienced growing up,' she said. 'We could relate and that's why we laughed.'
Rasheda Williams, 46, of Detroit was about the same age as Rudy, the youngest character on 'The Cosby Show' and Theo's little sister. Williams said she and others are mourning Warner's passing because of what they saw in the character he played.
'He's like the ideal cousin you wish you had,' Williams said. 'Hearing the news has really affected some of us. It was unexpected. He wasn't sick. That makes it even more tragic.'
'He wasn't just an actor,' she said. 'He was also an activist, a positive role model, not just for young Black men, but for young Black women as well.'
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2 hours ago
Keshia Knight Pulliam breaks silence after 'The Cosby Show' costar Malcolm-Jamal Warner's death
Keshia Knight Pulliam is honoring her former "The Cosby Show" co-star Malcolm-Jamal Warner after his tragic death. In a touching Instagram post on Sunday, Pulliam shared a clip of Warner performing onstage at the City Winery in Atlanta, followed by footage of two young girls, believed to be each of their daughters, walking with a horse on a farm. "A week ago I lost my big brother but I gained an angel," she wrote in the caption. "I love you… I miss you… We got our girls. ❤️." On her Instagram story, Pulliam explained why it took her some time to speak out about Warner's death. "Thank you for every text call and all of the love that you have sent my way," she wrote. "I've just needed a moment... ❤️." Warner was 54 when he drowned last Sunday on vacation in Costa Rica. Pulliam and Warner famously portrayed siblings Theo and Rudy Huxtable on "The Cosby Show" from 1984 to 1992 and remained close friends ever since. Just one month before his death, Pulliam appeared on Warner's podcast "Not All Hood NAH," where the pair reflected on their long-lasting friendship and the close bond between their daughters. "She is more than my friend, she is family. Our bond goes way beyond 'The Cosby Show,'" Warner said of Pulliam at the time. "We have both managed to navigate through the murky waters of child stardom with our souls and dignity intact." "He's stuck with me for life," Pulliam joked, calling Warner "family."


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Missed Out On Bad Bunny Tickets? No Problem—Here's Why Puerto Rico Is Still The Place To Be
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The first three weeks of the residency were reserved exclusively for residents of Puerto Rico, exemplifying his deep affection for his homeland and opens to the rest of the world on August 1. At the opening night concert, fans enjoyed multiple stage setups that mirrored the island's natural beauty and culture. Lush greenery and palm trees created the atmosphere of the Puerto Rican jungle. The "El Clúb" singer also incorporated elements that represent the colorful indigenous history and authenticity of the island, including Bomba dancers, screens displaying historical messages and even live chickens. Apart from its cultural significance, the concert series is projected to have a major economic and tourism impact. San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero shared that the residency was set to "bring $36 million in direct revenue to the Puerto Rican government including $2.3 million for the city's municipal treasury." Included in that monetary boost is an expected influx of 500,000 travelers visiting Puerto Rico with 40,000 hotel rooms booked over a three-month period — an 88% increase compared to the same time frame last year. According to data from shared via CNN, flights to the eastern Caribbean island skyrocketed by 217% during the residency announcement window. Bad Bunny has always been unapologetic about his pride in Puerto Rico, from being vocal about the island's political landscape to supporting local businesses and his goal of inspiring unity among citizens, and "No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí" is another step in his quest. Although the residency has supercharged the island's tourism, Puerto Rico has enough to celebrate well after Bad Bunny takes his final bow. So whether you're headed to Puerto Rico with the massive wave of Los Conejos ( "The Rabbits," alias for Bad Bunny fans ) or looking for a vacation you'll never want to end, here are some of the best ways to experience Puerto Rico. 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(Photo by: Marica van der Meer/Arterra/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Arterra/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Just in time for the concerts, JetBlue Vacations, the airline's travel curation sector, has begun offering personalized trip experiences and services for travelers through its Insider Experience program. The brand is a one-stop shop for flight, hotel and 24/7 customer service support, ensuring an unforgettable travel experience. In addition to a seamless travel experience, JetBlue Vacations offers travelers a range of experiences including a complimentary Old San Juan walking tour. Where To Stay Fairmont El San Juan Hotel The iconic Chandelier Bar is the epicenter of the Fairmont El San Juan's famously elegant nightlife. Fairmont El San Juan Hotel The Fairmont El San Juan Hotel is a timeless icon in the capital city. Since its grand opening in 1958, the massive hand-blown chandeliers, cherry mahogany woodwork and Italian marble, along with the hand-blown chandeliers, reflect the location's distinguished blend of timeless elegance, culture and luxury. Located along the award-winning Isla Verde Beach, this iconic resort holds memories of star-studded entertainment and legendary performances from names like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Sammy Davis Jr. Today, the Fairmont boasts 388 guest rooms, suites and villas that feature floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking views of the ocean or city. The property also includes upscale private villas, bungalows and signature suites, offering a sophisticated island living experience with access to four magnificent pools and cabanas. The onsite Well & Being Spa delivers personalized spa journeys including custom aromatherapy massages and facials, and its state-of-the-art fitness center offers a range of classes from Pilates to CrossFit. San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has evolved from a staple for business travelers to ... More one of the island's most beloved resort-style destinations. San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is dubbed as the epicenter of fun on Condado Beach. As the oldest Marriott casino in Puerto Rico, the Stellaris has undergone several transitions. Following an $80 million property-wide renovation in 2024, the location has evolved into its current resort-style space inspired by the island's natural splendor. Guest rooms and suites are now outfitted with sleek modern furniture featuring color palettes that echo the nearby ocean. The location now features a resort-style pool with cabanas and adult-only areas as well as new dining venues led by new culinary concepts including Cosecha, an open-air eatery serving traditional Puerto Rican food with a twist, and Sakana, the in-lobby bar restaurant celebrating Nikkei cuisine blending the bold flavors of Japan and Peru. In May 2025, the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino celebrated 30 years of leading the way in "bleisure" travel accommodations. Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Boutique Resort Experience paradise on the eastern coast of Puerto Rico at the Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Boutique ... More Resort. Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Boutique Resort If you're looking to stay clear of the hustle and bustle of San Juan, the Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Boutique Resort is the perfect choice. Located on the eastern coast of the island in the exclusive Palmas del Mar community, the Palmas has become a favorite destination for travelers seeking relaxation and holistic wellness experiences. The tranquility and serene setting of Palmas is enhanced by the sounds of the coquí (small tree frogs), trails leading to the private beach and ponds full of turtles guests are welcome to feed. The location offers an array of activities to support guests on their wellness journey, including invigorating yoga sessions and tranquil mat pilates. The expansive resort is also equipped with 25 tennis courts and two world-class championship golf courses. In addition to the standout transformative experiences, the shining star of Palmas is its acclaimed signature restaurant Trova. Starting with its name, which pays homage to the musical expression of the island, Trova is a love letter to Puerto Rico written by renowned chef Daniel Lugo. Fusing local ingredients he grew up with with global techniques he honed through years of culinary training, Chef Lugo has created a menu that reimagines classic dishes to satisfy every palate. Guest favorites include the local roasted snapper complemented by inventive sauces and a vegan Trova Burger crafted from garbanzo beans with island root chips. Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton Reserve Interior of a ground-floor room with a plunge pool at the Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is the embodiment of extravagance on Puerto Rico's northern coast. As a featured destination in The Edit by Chase Travel collection, Dorado Beach is a top choice for pure luxury on the island. Spread across 50 acres, the serene oceanfront resort blends natural beauty with the Ritz-Carlton's signature hospitality. Guests will enjoy residences and villas with breathtaking ocean views, private plunge pools and direct beach access. 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Although the restaurant specializes in premium cuts of meat including Wagyu ribeye, Cowboy ribeye and the Instagram-worthy Flaming Tomahawk, its seafood and gourmet-quality sides have garnered rave reviews. The reimagined eatery also boasts a curated wine and craft cocktail list featuring various locally distilled spirits. Café Con Ron Bad Bunny-inspired bar and restaurant Café Con Ron is a nod to the restaurant and bar scene of Old ... More San Juan. Café Con Ron Café Con Ron in Old San Juan is a must-visit for any Bad Bunny fan. Located on the infamous Calle San Sebastián, or "La Calle," a cobblestone street known for its nightlife and bars, Café Con Ron is an authentic homage to Old San Juan. The laid-back but lively location is a physical representation of the energy depicted in the artist's single of the same name, "CAFÉ CON RON." The small bar serves small plates and quick bites alongside its extensive list of creative cocktails including the Café Con Ron Old Fashioned featuring Puerto Rican rum and coffee. As deeply connected as Café Con Ron is to the musical lore of Bad Bunny, it's even more embedded in the genuine identity of San Juan. 1919 Restaurant 1919 offers guests world-class dining, focusing on locally sourced, artisanal ingredients, presented ... More with contemporary flair. 1919 Restaurant Led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Juan Cuevas, 1919 Restaurant offers a diverse array of carefully crafted dishes that showcase the island's finest offerings. It is widely regarded as one of the island's top fine dining destinations thanks to its exceptional food, attentive service and stunning oceanfront setting. 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2 hours ago
Keisha Knight Pulliam breaks silence after ‘The Cosby Show' costar Malcolm-Jamal Warner's death
Keisha Knight Pulliam is honoring her former "The Cosby Show" co-star Malcolm-Jamal Warner after his tragic death. In a touching Instagram post on Sunday, Pulliam shared a clip of Warner performing onstage at the City Winery in Atlanta, followed by footage of two young girls, believed to be each of their daughters, walking with a horse on a farm. "A week ago I lost my big brother but I gained an angel," she wrote in the caption. "I love you… I miss you… We got our girls. ❤️." On her Instagram story, Pulliam explained why it took her some time to speak out about Warner's death. "Thank you for every text call and all of the love that you have sent my way," she wrote. "I've just needed a moment... ❤️." Warner was 54 when he drowned last Sunday on vacation in Costa Rica. Pulliam and Warner famously portrayed siblings Theo and Rudy Huxtable on "The Cosby Show" from 1984 to 1992 and remained close friends ever since. Just one month before his death, Pulliam appeared on Warner's podcast "Not All Hood NAH," where the pair reflected on their long-lasting friendship and the close bond between their daughters. "She is more than my friend, she is family. Our bond goes way beyond 'The Cosby Show,'" Warner said of Pulliam at the time. "We have both managed to navigate through the murky waters of child stardom with our souls and dignity intact." "He's stuck with me for life," Pulliam joked, calling Warner "family."