Beyoncé Honors Malcolm-Jamal Warner with Heartfelt Tribute
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Beyoncé has paid tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the beloved actor best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, following his sudden death from drowning while vacationing in Costa Rica.
While on tour promoting her chart-topping Cowboy Carter album, Beyoncé took a moment to honor Warner on her official website. In a short but emotional message, she reflected on Warner’s enduring impact on television and Black culture.
“Rest in power, Malcolm-Jamal Warner,” the message reads. “Thanks for being a big part of our shared television history. You will be missed.”
Warner, 54, was vacationing with his wife and young daughter when tragedy struck on July 20. According to Costa Rican officials, the actor was caught in a rip current while swimming at Playa Cocles in the Limón province. Despite efforts by bystanders to rescue him and attempts by paramedics to revive him, Warner was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Costa Rican Red Cross confirmed that another man involved in the incident was hospitalized in critical condition. Warner’s family is currently working to repatriate his body to the U.S. for funeral arrangements.
Warner became a household name in the 1980s through his decade-long portrayal of Theo on The Cosby Show (1984–1994). His career extended well beyond that role, with credits in Malcolm & Eddie, guest appearances on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and directing stints on hit shows like Kenan & Kel and All That.
He was widely praised for bringing depth and relatability to Black male characters on television.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment world. Actress Tracee Ellis Ross, Warner’s co-star in Reed Between the Lines, expressed her sadness, saying, “My heart feels so sad.”
Bill Cosby, who played his on-screen father, described the loss as “devastating,” likening the grief to that of losing his own son. Celebrities including Magic Johnson, Holly Robinson Peete, and Geoffrey Owens have also shared condolences and memories.
