Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner's mother announces public statement following his recent passing.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Beloved Actor and Musician, Dies in Costa Rica
Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the iconic sitcom The Cosby Show, has tragically passed away at the age of 54. According to reports from ABC News, Warner drowned in Costa Rica on July 21, 2025.
The incident occurred near Cocles beach in Limón province, where Warner was swimming during a family vacation. He was caught in a strong rip current and despite the efforts of bystanders and paramedics who performed CPR, he was declared dead at the scene. Another man involved in the same incident survived after emergency treatment.
The Costa Rican National Police confirmed the details of the accident, stating that Warner was pulled into deeper water by the rip current and was rescued from the water but did not survive. The official cause of death was asphyxia due to drowning.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner was more than just an actor and musician. To his mother, Pamela Warner, he was a kind, loving man with a huge heart for humanity. She described him as her teacher, coach, confidant, business partner, and best friend.
Malcolm was not only a talented actor but also a successful musician. He formed his own band, Miles Long, and excelled as a bassist, releasing four albums with two Grammy nominations and one Grammy Award.
As a child, Malcolm declared at eight years old that being on stage was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life, and this became a self-fulfilling prophecy. He was deeply in love with the magic of acting and always studied and honed his craft.
Tributes poured in from celebrities after news of Malcolm's death, including his The Cosby Show co-star Bill Cosby. Malcolm left an indelible mark on the world and on countless hearts.
Pamela Warner has released a statement about her son three weeks after his accidental drowning in Costa Rica. She expressed her love for him and shared memories of their time together. Malcolm was an exceptional husband, father, and son, deeply in love with life, his wife, and his daughter.
Rest in peace, Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Your talent, kindness, and spirit will be greatly missed.
[1] Costa Rican National Police report to ABC News [2] Statement posted on Instagram account "Malcolm-Jamal Warner Living Legacy" [3] Costa Rican Red Cross statement [4] Judicial authorities statement [5] Costa Rican beach officials statement
- The entertainment world and his fans are mourning the loss of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, a beloved actor, musician, and a beacon of talent and kindness, following the tragic news of his accidental drowning in Costa Rica.
- Tributes from numerous celebrities have poured in, recognizing not just his extraordinary acting skills, but also his contributions as a successful musician, reflecting the far-reaching impact of his expansive entertainment career.
