Malcolm Jamal Warner, Gone But Not Forgotten

By Rev. Christopher W. Riley
FWIS Contributing Writer

“You gave us more than we deserve.” Award-winning actress Regina King. King who was once partnered in love with Warner responds to the untimely death of the multi-faceted actor.

If you had the privilege of growing up in the 1980’s, you can remember sitting in front of the TV on Thursday nights at 8 p.m. EST to watch the Cosby Show. 1984-1992 was a special time in America. The Cosby Show depicted an African American family in a positive light. The show was based on the life of a Black Family where the mother was an attorney and the father a medical doctor (OB/GYN), the impact reached beyond color and socio-economic lines and changed the landscape of American Television. Hence, the show was #1 for 5 consecutive seasons. All in the Family and American Idol are the only other series in history that have this distinction.

Malcolm Jamal Warner played the only son (Theo) and the third eldest child of Dr. Heathcliff (Bill Cosby) and Claire Hanks Huxtable (Phylicia Rashad). Theo became the world’s little or older brother. The world watched Theo overcome the typical issues affecting teenage boys: life lessons, relationships and struggles with school. One of the most notable story lines was Theo’s struggles with dyslexia, in which he later became a teacher who helped children overcome the same issue. Who could forget the Gordon Gartrell shirt as Theo was developing his sense of fashion?

The news of Warner’s death broke on Sunday, July 20. The world remains in a state of shock as we reflect on his “legacy of a spirit who remains woven into the fabric of Black culture, a legacy that will educate, inspire, and uplift for decades to come.” (Voices 2025)

After Cosby, Warner went on to earn a Grammy in 2015 for the best traditional R & B (Rhythm & Blues) performance. He also continued to appear in series such as Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines and more recently The Resident. Warner also directed episodes of The Cosby Show, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and The Resident.

In the spirit of the two giants which he was named, Human Rights Activist and African American Revolutionary, Malcolm X and Jazz Musician, Ahmad Jamal, Warner “used his voice to tackle issues like racial injustice, fatherhood, and identity. His spoken-word album Selfless and jazz collaborations showcased his ability to blend artistry with activism.” (Voices 2025)

Warner dies less than a month before his 55th Birthday (August 18)! He leaves to mourn his wife and daughter in addition to his mother, Pamela Warner, Father, Robert Warner along with many friends in and outside of the entertainment world and many loyal fans. R.I.H. the world’s brother, Theo, Malcolm Jamal Warner.