Keshia Knight Pulliam Remembers Malcolm-Jamal Warner: A Tribute

Keshia Knight Pulliam, renowned for her role as Rudy Huxtable on 'The Cosby Show', has publicly paid tribute to her late co-star Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who tragically drowned on July 21, 2025, while on vacation in Costa Rica. In an emotional Instagram post, Pulliam shared a video of Warner showcasing his musical talent, highlighting not only his acting prowess but also his contributions as a musician. Warner, who was 54 at the time of his passing, is best remembered for his portrayal of Theo Huxtable, the beloved son in the iconic television series.

Pulliam’s heartfelt message stated, "A week ago, I lost my big brother, but I gained an angel," reflecting the deep bond they shared on and off-screen. She further expressed her love and grief, stating, "I love you... I miss you," and acknowledged their fellow castmates, saying, "We got our girls."

The news of Warner's death has reverberated throughout Hollywood, prompting tributes from many of his colleagues, including Bill Cosby, Geoffrey Owens, and Raven-Symoné. Cosby, who portrayed Warner's father on the show, shared with CBS News that he and co-star Phylicia Rashad were together when they received the news, expressing their sorrow and reminiscing about Warner's dedication and professionalism during his teenage years on set.

Geoffrey Owens, who played Elvin Tibideaux, Warner's on-screen brother-in-law, described him as a "lovely man" with a profound love for creativity. In his statement, Owens noted, “Malcolm was a lovely man; a sweet and sensitive soul. I respected him for many reasons, including the fact that he genuinely loved the act of creation.”

Warner was not just an actor; he was also a Grammy-winning musician, which Pulliam emphasized in her tribute. He was performing at a venue in Atlanta, City Winery, just a week before his untimely death. Warner was swimming with family when a strong current pulled him away, ultimately leading to his drowning. He was later found without vital signs, and though first responders tended to another man involved in the incident, Warner could not be revived.

As the tributes poured in from fans and fellow actors alike, including notable figures such as Beyoncé, who honored Warner on her website, Pulliam expressed gratitude for the support she received during this difficult time, stating, "Thank you for every text, call, and all the love that you have sent my way. I’ve just needed a moment."

In memory of Warner, City Winery will host a tribute event, with all profits directed to his family. The event aims to celebrate Warner's legacy, acknowledging the impact he had on television, music, and the lives of those who loved him.

Warner is survived by his wife and daughter, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond his iconic role on 'The Cosby Show.' His contributions to the arts, particularly in portraying nuanced Black characters, have left a lasting impact on American culture. As the entertainment community continues to mourn, Warner's life serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and the connections forged through art.