Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the beloved actor known for playing Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, tragically died on July 20, 2025, while swimming with his 8-year-old daughter during a family vacation in Costa Rica.
The daughter was heroically pulled to safety by a surfer after both got into trouble in the water. Despite immediate rescue efforts, Warner could not be revived.
Quick-Thinking Surfer Saves Daughter as Lifeguards Struggle to Rescue Warner
According to ABC News, Warner and his daughter were body surfing when they were caught in dangerous water conditions near the coast of Costa Rica. Surfers in the area noticed the struggle and rushed to assist.
One surfer used his board to pull the 8-year-old girl to safety, while a volunteer lifeguard helped bring Warner and another surfer ashore. Emergency responders performed CPR on Warner for 45 minutes, but sadly he was pronounced dead.
Two surfers involved in the rescue survived without serious injury. Dr. Mauricio Sonalo Corella, Medical Director for the Talamanca Health Area, later confirmed that a man who helped Warner was treated and released without complications.
Autopsy Reveals Cause of Death; Warner’s Private Family Life
The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) confirmed that Warner’s autopsy showed he died from accidental asphyxiation by submersion. The actor’s family details remain private, with the names of his wife and daughter undisclosed.
Warner shared rare glimpses of his family life on social media, affectionately referring to his daughter as their “mini us.” He posted touching videos and photos showing their close bond, expressing his love and amazement at how quickly she was growing.
Warner rose to fame as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show (1984-1992), and later starred in Malcolm & Eddie (1996-2000) and Reed Between the Lines (2011-2015). In 2024, he launched the podcast Not All Hood, co-hosted with Weusi Baraka and Candace Kelley, aimed at exploring diverse perspectives within the Black community.
Warner’s death has left fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a talented actor and devoted father.