Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the American actor best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the 1980s television hit "The Cosby Show," died at age 54 from an accidental drowning. The incident occurred on Sunday, July 20, 2025, while Warner was vacationing with his family in Costa Rica. According to local authorities, he was swimming with his 8-year-old daughter when they were caught in a strong current. Surfers nearby assisted by rescuing his daughter and bringing Warner to shore, where CPR was administered for 45 minutes, but he could not be revived. Warner was recognized for his Emmy-winning performance and was a notable figure in television. His death has prompted tributes from fellow actors and public figures, including Bill Cosby, who mourned the loss of his on-screen son. Additional details revealed that a second man was critically injured in the same drowning incident. Warner's ex-partner Regina King and other celebrities have publicly expressed their condolences. The drowning took place at a beach without lifeguards, contributing to the tragedy.
A doctor who was on the scene and helped recover the late Malcolm-Jamal Warner from a Costa Rica ocean is speaking out. https://t.co/dCYlW7e5pa
Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s friend Candace Kelley is looking back on her fond memories and moments with the late star. https://t.co/hgN9Wob0GQ
Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s 8-year-old daughter was saved by two bystanders after she and the actor were dragged by a rogue ocean current. https://t.co/qqpx4hi0k3