The news of Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s death has left many of his colleagues, friends, family members, and fans in shock.
The actor—who first gained fame as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show—went on to build a lasting career in television, film, and music. He remained a respected and familiar presence in the industry up until his death at 54 on July 20, while vacationing with his family in Costa Rica.
Below, learn more about the circumstances surrounding his passing, the official cause of death, and a closer look at his family and career.
According to officials, Warner drowned after being caught in a powerful rip current off the coast of Playa Grande in Costa Rica’s Limón province. Despite efforts by bystanders and emergency responders to administer CPR, Warner was pronounced dead at the scene on Sunday, July 20.
On July 22, Costa Rican police confirmed that Warner’s autopsy had been completed. The country’s Forensic Pathology Department ruled his death an accident, citing asphyxiation by submersion as the official cause.
At the time of the incident, no lifeguards were on duty. Local volunteer patrols had been reassigned due to resource shortages, and the beach is known for its dangerous rip currents.
In an initial statement, the Costa Rican Red Cross said that “two people were dragged by a water current at the beach,” and both individuals were out of the water by the time paramedics arrived. The second person, who was treated at the scene, was reported to be in critical condition after being rescued.
