Limon, Costa Rica – Malcolm-Jamal Warner, beloved actor best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the iconic sitcom The Cosby Show, tragically passed away at age 54 on Sunday, July 20, 2025, while on a family vacation in Costa Rica. Authorities confirmed that Warner drowned while swimming off the coast of Playa Grande de Cocles in Limon province, succumbing to a strong current.
According to Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Department and the Costa Rican National Police, Warner was caught in a high current around 2:00–2:30 PM local time. Despite efforts by bystanders to assist him, he was found without vital signs by the Costa Rican Red Cross and was pronounced dead at the scene. The official cause of death was ruled as asphyxia due to drowning. No further investigations are deemed necessary, as the incident has been classified as an accident.
Warner, born August 18, 1970, in Jersey City, New Jersey, rose to fame as the teenage son of Bill Cosby’s character, Heathcliff Huxtable, on The Cosby Show (1984–1992), earning an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. His portrayal of Theo, navigating school and family life, resonated with audiences, making him a household name. Warner later starred in Malcolm & Eddie (1996–2000) alongside Eddie Griffin and appeared in shows like Reed Between the Lines (2011–2015), Major Crimes, Suits, and The Resident. Beyond acting, Warner was a talented musician, poet, and bass player, winning a Grammy in 2015 for his musical work.
The actor, who kept his private life out of the spotlight, is survived by his wife and daughter, whose names he never disclosed publicly. Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues, with Malcolm & Eddie co-star Eddie Griffin calling Warner “my big little brother” on Instagram. Fans shared iconic Cosby Show moments, like Theo’s $95 Gordon Gartrell shirt, expressing grief with comments like “RIP Theo” and “gone too soon.”
Costa Rican beaches, including Cocles, are known for their beauty but also for dangerous rip currents, which have claimed numerous lives, including an estimated 200 drownings annually at beaches like Jaco. Authorities and locals emphasize the importance of rip current awareness, advising swimmers to swim parallel to the shore to escape such currents.Warner’s representatives have not released an official statement, and no details on memorial services have been announced. His death marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry, with fans and peers remembering his warmth, humor, and enduring legacy
