Malcolm-Jamal Warner, beloved for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has tragically died at age 54. The actor reportedly drowned while vacationing in Costa Rica, according to the country’s Judicial Investigation Agency.

Authorities stated Warner was swimming at Playa Grande, near Cocles Beach in Limón, around 2:00–2:30 p.m. local time when a strong current pulled him out to sea. Bystanders were able to bring him back to shore, and emergency responders from the Costa Rican Red Cross attempted to revive him. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Warner rose to fame as a teenager on The Cosby Show, earning an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor. Despite controversy surrounding Bill Cosby in later years, Warner remained proud of his role and the show’s legacy.

In 2023, he said, “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.”

Beyond The Cosby Show, Warner also starred in Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines, and more recently, The Resident.

Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow actors, remembering Warner as a talented, kind-hearted man who left a lasting impression on television and culture.

He is survived by his wife and daughter. His sudden death has left fans worldwide shocked and mourning the loss of a cherished star.