Rabat – Malcolm-Jamal Warner, actor and artist, died on July 20 at age 54, according to sources close to the actor.
Warner was swimming at Playa Grande on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica when he was pulled by a current deeper into the ocean, confirmed the Associated Press.
According to CNN, Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Police said that people on the beach attempted to help the actor, but he was pronounced dead by the Red Cross.
Warner began his acting career at the young age of 9, appearing in shows like “Fame”. He rose to stardom at just 13 years old when he was cast as Theodore Huxtable on “The Cosby Show”.
This role earned him a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series at the 38th Primetime Emmy Awards.
Bill Cosby expressed deep sorrow over Warner’s passing, telling WPVI that the news was “shocking,” and shared that his immediate thoughts were with Warner’s mother.
“My thoughts went straight to his mother, who worked so hard. She was so wonderful with him.”
Despite his early fame, Warner continuously worked to showcase his diverse talents as a multifaceted artist.
The actor had his own sitcom “Malcolm & Eddie”, before appearing on multiple series, notably “Sons of Anarchy.”
Malcolm-Jamal Warner also played the significant role of doctor AJ Austin, also known as “The Raptor,” a cardio-thoracic surgeon, on the FOX medical drama “The Resident.”
His character quickly became a fan favorite, leading to him being promoted to a series regular after originally being cast for only a three-episode arc in season one.
Furthermore, Warner was also a Grammy-winning poet and a talented versatile performer.
Warner’s sudden death has left fans and fellow artists in mourning, remembering not just the role that made him a household name, but also the depth and diversity he brought to every creative pursuit.
