'A legacy of grace and talent': Hollywood mourns Malcolm-Jamal Warner's death at 54
According to a law enforcement source who confirmed the news to Reuters, Warner drowned on Monday at the age of 54 while on holiday in Costa Rica with his family.
Warner rose to fame in the 1980s as the only son in the Huxtable family in the groundbreaking NBC sitcom The Cosby Show. His role as Theo, the middle child in a family of five, became iconic and earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1986.
Over the decades, Warner built a diverse and respected career, with roles in Jeremiah, Sons of Anarchy, Suits, A Different World and The Resident. He hosted Saturday Night Live in 1986 and in 2015 won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Performance for the song Jesus Children.
Tributes have poured in from actors, artists and friends who were touched by Warner's talent and warmth.
Bill Cosby, who played Warner's TV father, spoke fondly of his former co-star in an interview with ABC News on Monday.
'He knew how to walk away from any conversation without being rude. Malcolm did his best. He was a great studier,' said Cosby.
'I enjoyed working with him very much. He always knew his lines and he always knew where to go.'
Comedian and actor Eddie Griffin, Warner's longtime friend and co-star from the popular late 90s sitcom Malcolm & Eddie, said he had learnt much from Warner.
'My heart is heavy today. I had the pleasure of going to war against the Hollywood machine and sometimes with each other because that's what brothers do but the love was and is always there. You've taught me so much and I thank you,' said Griffin.
Actor Morris Chestnut, who worked with Warner on The Resident, shared: 'Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner. He brought so much depth, warmth, and wisdom to every scene and every conversation. One of the nicest in the business. Rest easy, brother. Your legacy lives on.'
TV personality and actress Sherri Shepherd, who worked closely with Warner, wrote on Facebook: 'I'm completely devastated. Malcolm remained one of the most-grounded people I've ever met in our business. To know Malcolm was to know a renaissance man that possessed humour, grace, humility and deep cultural appreciation. He was just a good guy ... He was a proud girl dad and loved his daughter so much.'
R&B singer Kenny Lattimore echoed the heartbreak in a video he shared on Facebook.
'Gone far too soon. Malcolm-Jamal Warner was a legend, a legacy and a genuinely great man. Rest well, king,' said Lattimore.
Actor and musician Tyrese Gibson expressed his grief in a poem posted on X.
'We lost more than an actor. We lost a presence. A gentle, regal, beautiful soul respected without ever demanding it,' said Gibson.
Actress Queen Latifah, while paying tribute, also lamented how Warner's early work might remain inaccessible to younger audiences due to the controversy surrounding The Cosby Show.
'The saddest part about Malcolm-Jamal Warner's passing is that there's a whole generation that will never see his early acting brilliance on The Cosby Show because of what that terrible man did [a reference to the sexual assault allegations against Cosby which prompted several networks to cancel reruns of the show]. They won't be able to watch reruns or watch it on streaming to truly appreciate him,' said Latifah.
Actress Angela Bassett, who recently worked with Warner on 9-1-1, reflected on their long friendship.
'Even in his youth, Malcolm's empathy, quiet strength and his bright light surrounded us all. His deep commitment to his craft left an impression on me that has never faded,' said Bassett.
Actress Niecy Nash said: 'We just spoke. You were giving me my flowers for my work in Grotesquerie and we talked about how happy we both were in our marriages. Damn friend. You were the cornerstone of The Cosby Show. We all loved Theo! Never to be forgotten. You will be missed.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
TimesLIVE
2 days ago
- TimesLIVE
Hollywood bling for 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles
Organisers of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics have named TV and film executive Peter Rice as head of ceremonies and content, marking the first time a major Hollywood figure will oversee the creative production of the Olympic and Paralympic ceremonies. Rice, who has had senior leadership experience with 21st Century Fox and The Walt Disney Company, will serve as lead executive producer for both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies in Los Angeles. 'Our ceremonies will capture the energy, innovation and creativity of Los Angeles as well as the emotion that exists at the heart of every Olympic Games,' Rice told Reuters in an interview. 'The challenge is to welcome the world in a way that's not only memorable, but truly representative of LA's unique spirit — a city that stands at the crossroads of creativity, sports, and art.' The British American producer will shape the creative vision and oversee production of all four ceremonies at two iconic venues: the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and the newly built SoFi Stadium. He said his experience with global sporting events like the Super Bowl, World Series, and Fifa World Cup has prepared him for the task, and emphasised that assembling a world-class production team was his priority. 'We need people with deep Olympic experience who can also tap into LA's creativity and energy,' he said, adding that the selection of a production company is expected by year's end. LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman expressed enthusiasm for Rice's appointment, citing their 25-year friendship and Rice's unique blend of business, technical, financial and creative skills. 'I knew he was our number one draft pick,' Wasserman said. Rice, whose projects have earned 51 Academy Award and 293 Emmy nominations, hopes the ceremonies reflect Southern California's spirit of optimism. 'It's a place where people go to pursue their dreams, and the Olympics are all about people's dreams,' he said. The LA Games open on July 14, 2028, with the Paralympic Games after in August. It will be the first time Los Angeles has hosted a Paralympics.
IOL News
3 days ago
- IOL News
Kevin Hart to perform in India
Grammy and Emmy-nominated comedian Kevin Hart is set to perform live for the first time in India. Hart said he cannot wait to witness the incredible energy live in Mumbai. Hart will perform at the NSCI Dome SVP Stadium, Mumbai on September 21, 2025. As part of his debut, he will bring his acclaimed 'Acting My Age' tour to Indian shores for an evening of relentless laughter, razor-sharp observations and captivating storytelling. 'India, we are destined to meet this year and I cannot wait to witness your incredible energy live in Mumbai. We're going to have an epic night filled with love and laughter,' said Hart in a statement. The going out platform District by Zomat made the announcement about his live performance and touted it as a one-of-a-kind comedy show produced by and exclusively ticketed by District by Zomato. He will be performing his comedic set, 'Acting My Age', where he will delve into personal experiences, societal norms, and the challenges of aging with his unique comedic flair. Commenting on hosting this global comedic genius in the country, Rahul Ganjoo, CEO of District by Zomato, said, 'The Indian comedy scene is at its peak right now, audiences are sharper, hungrier and more global in their tastes than ever before. Bringing Kevin Hart to India is a monumental moment for not only us but for every comedy lover in India eager to experience global brilliance firsthand.' Hart has been feted with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and nominations for two Grammy Awards and four Primetime Emmy Awards. After winning several stand-up comedy competitions, he first gained the spotlight when Judd Apatow cast him in a recurring role on the TV series Undeclared. His comedic reputation continued to grow with the release of his first stand-up album I'm a Grown Little Man. He has since released four more comedy albums such as Seriously Funny, Laugh at My Pain, Let Me Explain, and What Now? Hart has also performed in cinema such as Paper Soldiers, Scary Movie 3, Soul Plane, Little Fockers, Think Like a Man, Grudge Match, Ride Along, About Last Night, Get Hard (2015), Central Intelligence, Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie, the Jumanji film franchise and Night School. He also created and starred as a fictionalised version of himself in Real Husbands of Hollywood. SUNDAY TRIBUNE
IOL News
3 days ago
- IOL News
From rock legends to royal losses: this week in fame had it all
Ozzy Osbourne speaks onstage during the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Image:for The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame/AFP From the tragic loss of music and television icons to surprise pregnancy reveals and a royal heartbreak, the world of fame served a full plate of drama, nostalgia and a few unexpected plot twists. Here's what happened this week in the entertainment scene: 1. Rock royalty bows out: Ozzy Osbourne dies at 76 The entertainment world is mourning the loss of heavy metal pioneer Ozzy Osbourne, who died this week at the age of 76. The iconic Black Sabbath frontman had long struggled with health issues, including Parkinson's disease, but he remained active in the music world until recently. Surrounded by family, the music icon passed away peacefully just weeks after his emotional final performance in Birmingham. Known for his gritty voice, chaotic stage antics and larger-than-life personality, Osbourne helped shape an entire genre. 2. Hollywood mourns the death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who died in a tragic drowning A wave of shock rippled across Hollywood following the death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who was best known for playing Theo on "The Cosby Show". The actor drowned while on vacation with his daughter in Costa Rica, at just 54 years old. Warner, who grew from a child star to a respected actor and musician, won awards for his contributions to television's golden era of sitcoms as well as his music. Tributes from fans and former co-stars, including Bill Cosby, poured in. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ US actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner has died. Image: Robyn Beck/ AFP 3. Royal tragedy: Prince William and Harry's cousin found dead In yet another sombre moment for Britain's royal family, a distant cousin of Princes William and Harry, Rosie Roche, was found dead in Wiltshire under undisclosed circumstances. The 20-year-old granddaughter of Princess Diana's uncle tragically passed away just before her planned vacation with friends. Roche's discovery, according to online reports, was a family affair, credited to her mother, Phillipa Roche, and her sister, Agatha Roche. Princes William and Harry recently lost their distant cousin, Rosie Roche. Image: Instagram. 4. Trompies is cooking up a kwaito comeback Trompies, one of South Africa's most iconic kwaito groups, have announced they're back in the studio working on a new EP, with a release date not announced yet. But fans who grew up dancing to songs like 'Madibuseng' and 'Sweety Lavo' are already hyped for the return of a sound that never truly left the streets. Trompies are back in the studio, cooking up a brand new EP. Image: File image 5. Kelly Khumalo's concert security sparks questions Attendees at Kelly Khumalo's recent concert were taken aback by the heightened security measures. The singer has been under renewed scrutiny following allegations from a former advocate in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial. With public suspicion continuing to swirl, the extra layers of security have only fueled speculation. The singer came out to defend herself in response to all the claims made about her in an Instagram video, citing that she's not intimidated by anyone and challenged those who think she's guilty to take action against her or 'back off'. Amid ongoing allegations in the Senzo Meyiwa case, Kelly Khumalo's heightened security at Dundee July raises eyebrows and concerns among fans. Image: Instagram 6. Wedding bells for Charli XCX British pop provocateur Charli XCX tied the knot with George Daniel of The 1975 in an intimate ceremony this past weekend in London. The 32-year-old pop singer walked down the aisle in a stunning Vivienne Westwood Nova Cora mini gown designed with a ruched skirt which featured an off-the-shoulder design. Charli XCX and George Daniel tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in London. Image: Instagram 7. Nonku Williams responds to Jojo Robinson's emotional post Drama from "The Real Housewives of Durban" spilled over into the headlines again, with Nonku Williams breaking her silence on her reportedly crumbling friendship with on and off screen bestie Jojo Robinson. In a social media post, the reality star highlighted that every friendship has its seasons, lessons and growing pains, and that she hopes to move forward with Robinson in a place of mutual understanding and respect. Nonku Williams responds to Jojo Robinson's emotional letter, aiming to mend their friendship after a turbulent season on 'The Real Housewives of Durban'. Image: Instagram 8. Triple threat: Rouge, Nadia Nakai and Moozlie drop all-female banger Rouge, Nadia Nakai, and Moozlie teamed up to deliver a powerhouse collaboration, serving bars, fashion and fierce visuals. The track touches on empowerment, hustle and setting the record straight without missing a beat. For the first time, these three rap titans come together on a song that embodies their collective strength. Image: Supplied 9. Baby joy for Naked DJ and Kayleigh Schwark Congratulations are in order for "Young, Famous & African" stars Naked DJ and Kayleigh Schwark, who announced they are expecting their first child together. The couple, who featured on the Netflix reality show, excitedly announced the joyful news in a joint Instagram post as they revealed the growing baby bump. Reality TV stars Naked DJ and Kayleigh Schwark are expecting their first child together. Image: StillsByTom 10. The next generation shines bright All eyes are on The Power of Young Hollywood honourees as rising stars like Tyla, Finn Wolfhard, and Sam Nivola are set to be celebrated for their talents on August 7. The annual 'Power of Young Hollywood' night of celebration recognises the most promising, influential and upcoming young stars. This year's honourees include singer Tyla, Wolfhard and Nivola. These talented creatives have each made significant moves in their respective fields, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impact on pop culture. Courtesy of Sandisk, the 'Power of Young Hollywood' party aims to shine a spotlight on the brightest stars in the industry, highlighting their achievements and contributions to film, television, music and beyond. Celebrating the brightest young talents in entertainment, the 2025 'Power of Young Hollywood' party is set to honour Grammy Award-winning singer Tyla, 'Stranger Things' star Finn Wolfhard and rising actor Sam Nivola. Image: Instagram
