Malcom Jamal-Warner has passed he was 54
Malcolm-Jamal Warner has died, via a source told to PEOPLE. He was 54. A Warner representative did not respond quickly to a request for comment. Warner's career started with his part as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show. Sources are stating that the actor passed via an accidental drowning while on vacation in Costa Rica.
From 1984 to 1992, the actor portrayed Bill Cosby's character, Heathcliff Huxtable, as his only son.
In 2023, Warner told PEOPLE about the sitcom, "I know I can speak for the entire cast when I say The Cosby Show is something that we are all still very proud of."
"We share a unique experience that keeps us lovingly bonded no matter how much time goes between seeing or hearing from each other."
Warner did, of course, address how the show's history had changed in the wake of charges against Cosby, 88, who was convicted of sexual assault in 2018 but had the charge overturned in 2021, only for five more women to accuse him of sexual assault.
"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," Warner told CNN.
"We are united by a distinctive experience that ensures our affectionate connection, regardless of the length of time that passes between our encounters."
Warner acknowledged the alteration of the show's legacy due to the allegations against Cosby, 88. Cosby was convicted of sexual assault in 2018, though this was overturned in 2021. Afterward, five more women accused him of sexual assault.
Warner stated, "I am still proud of the legacy and the fact that I was a part of such an iconic show that had such a profound impact on — first and foremost, Black culture — but also American culture, despite the current feelings of some people."
Warner starred in numerous successful television programs and films subsequent to The Cosby Show.
From 1996 to 2000, Warner and Eddie Griffin starred in the sitcom Malcolm & Eddie. Additionally, Warner was recognized for his portrayal of Alex Reed in the 2011–2015 series Reed Between the Lines, in which he co-starred with Tracee Ellis Ross.
Warner's most recent roles include Chuck Cooper in Major Crimes, Julius Rowe in Suits, and AJ Austin in The Resident.
His most recent credits included Alert: Missing Persons Unit and 9-1-1.