Celebrity News July 21, 2025
Malcolm-Jamal Warner: Tracee Ellis Ross & More Stars Remember ‘Cosby Show’ Actor

Hollywood is remembering “The Cosby Show” star Malcolm-Jamal Warner after his shocking death 54.
According to reports, Warner died in an accidental drowning in Costa Rica. His body was found on Sunday.
Warner's TV dad Bill Cosby shared his reaction with rep Andrew Wyatt, who told TMZ that Warner's death reminded him of losing his son Ennis. More on Cosby's reaction here.
Jaleel White told "Extra," "Malcolm and I were industry peers. I mean, really, I can't even say that. Like, I grew up looking up to him. He was ahead of me in the game. I'm kind of waiting for more details to come out because it was just a very disturbing report... You kind of caught me at a loss for words and kind of reflecting on my own memories."
White added, “Please remember him as a poet, a Grammy Award-winning musician, and an actor who did a lot more than just star on a sitcom when he was a kid.”
Tracee Ellis Ross, who played opposite Warner on “Reed Between the Lines,” wrote on Instagram, “I love you, Malcolm. First I met you as Theo with the rest of the world then you were my first TV husband. My heart is so so sad. What an actor and friend you were: warm, gentle, present, kind, thoughtful, deep, funny, elegant. You made the world a brighter place. Sending so much love to your family. I’m so sorry for this unimaginable loss.”
Kate Hudson wrote on Instagram Stories, “Spent time working on a film in Australia with Malcolm and he was the kindest and sweetest. My heart is heavy and sending such love to @malcolmjamalwar family.”
Adam Sandler told "Extra," “I knew him very well. We were young together. We hung out a bunch, went to lunch and dinner and parties, and he was always a very down-to-earth, special kid and very inclusive and made me feel special and was a superstar wherever he went. It was, it was mayhem. He just meant a lot to the world, and we're gonna miss him.”
Niecy Nash, in remembering Warner on Instagram, confirmed he was happier than ever and in love, writing, "My God 💔 we just spoke. You were giving me my flowers for my work in @grotesqueriefx and we talked about how happy we both were in our marriages. Damn friend 🥲 You were cornerstone of The Cosby Show. We all loved Theo! Never to be forgotten. You will be missed. Rest Easy 🕊️."

Malcolm-Jamal Warner Dies at 54 — Drowning Confirmed by Costa Rican Police
View StoryCuba Gooding Jr. told “Extra” in a statement, “MALCOLM was not only a gifted actor who I was honored to have co-stared in the film TUSKEGEE AIRMEN with as well as have him play ‘Al COWLINGS’ to my ‘OJ’ for RYAN MURPHY, but more importantly he was a dear friend and neighbor to me when I was just starting a family all those many years ago. I will miss his larger than life laugh which was indicative of the explosive energy he exuded to everyone around him. Gone too soon. Love you brother…”
Eddie Griffin, who co-starred with Warner on “Malcolm & Eddie,” shared a photo of his late friend on his Instagram Stories, writing, “RIP King,” and calling him, “My big little brother.”
Warner’s “The Resident” co-star Morris Chestnut, wrote on Instagram, "Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Working alongside him on 'The Resident' was an honor. He brought so much depth, warmth, and wisdom to every scene and every conversation. One of the nicest in the business. Rest easy, brother. Your legacy lives on."
"Suits" star Patrick J. Adam told People magazine in a statement, "We were blessed with countless incredible guest stars over our 9 years of Suits. But when it came to generosity of spirit, joy and absolute commitment to every moment on and off camera, Malcolm was untouchable. I feel so lucky to have shared that time him and send my deepest condolences to his friends and family."
Magic Johnson and his wife Cookie, shared on X, "Cookie and I are sad to hear about the passing of our dear friend Malcolm-Jamal Warner. We were both super fans of the hit Cosby Show and continued to follow his career on shows like Malcolm and Eddie and The Resident. Every time I ran into Malcolm, we would have deep and fun conversations about basketball, life, and business. He will truly be missed. 🙏🏾Cookie and I are praying his family and close friends during this difficult time."
Jennifer Hudson wrote on Instagram, "Devastated by this news. Truly heartbroken! Rest well, king."
Marlee Matlin, who worked with Malcolm on “Accused,” wrote, "I am so sad to read of the untimely passing of Malcolm Jamal Warner. He was the nicest guy and it was a privilege to have been in the same company with him, sharing a directors’ panel along with @HowardmGordon and Michael Chiklis. My heart goes out to his family and friends. RIP Malcolm."