Credit: Video Screenshot, 'The Cosby Show', NBCWe have some very sad news being reported today. Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable in the iconic television comedy, The Cosby Show, has died. He was just 54 years old.
Mr. Warner was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, on August 18, 1970, and began acting when he was just twelve years old. He had only been acting for two years before he would get the role that would define his illustrious career — playing Bill Cosby’s son, Theo, on Cosby’s new television show. The show would stay on the air for eight years, and Warner starred in more than 190 episodes.
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According to a report from ABC News, Warner was on vacation with his family in Costa Rica when he was caught by a huge rip current while swimming.
Warner drowned off the coast of Costa Rica on Sunday, Costa Rican National Police told ABC News. Warner’s official cause of death was asphyxia, police said.
Warner died near Cocles, a beach in Limon, Costa Rica, police said. Police said he was caught by a high current in the water and was discovered Sunday afternoon.
Warner was formally identified by Costa Rica’s national police.
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While Mr. Warner didn’t have a ton of acting experience under his belt before being cast as Theo Huxtable, his natural talent was undeniable. His role on the show earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. And that was not the only nomination he received during his long and steady career.
Over the years, Warner received more than a dozen award nominations, and won several for his role in The Cosby Show, including winning the Young Artist Awards.
While Warner spent a lot of time in front of the camera, he managed to keep his private life out of the headlines. He is survived by his wife and daughter, whose names he has never shared, citing privacy concerns.
We extend our most heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Malcolm-Jamal Warner. He will forever be remembered for his extreme talent and unending kindness.