Many were heavily affected by the death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the beloved actor best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show. Since Warner’s passing, fans have penned sweet tributes in his memory. Fellow celebrities who were fortunate enough to know Warner have also shared their recollections of him. Anthony Mackie is now one of the latest actors to reflect on their relationship with the former child actor. While discussing Warner, Mackie expressed nothing but pride over his late “friend.”
On numerous occasions, Anthony Mackie has discussed the various stars he’s crossed paths with over the course of his career. Sometimes those sentiments manifest as jokey anecdotes or even stories about legitimate guidance. Mackie (who’s been promoting his 2025 TV schedule entry, Twisted Metal Season 2) was sentimental while discussing Malcolm-Jamal Warner. As much as Warner’s stellar work remains acclaimed by audiences, Mackie is just “proud” to have been able to know him as a person:
I’m proud to say Malcom-Jamal Warner was a friend of mine. He’s somebody that I knew and spent time with, and just was such a beautiful human being.
Personally, I can’t help but wish I could’ve been a fly on the wall during any of those conversations. What I imagine is the two actor friends discussing not just the craft but life as well. The longtime Marvel Cinematic Universe star went on to share additional thoughts about his buddy while speaking with People. Based on his comments, he didn’t take any of their personal chats for granted whenever they unfolded:
And every time I was around him, I was able to take full advantage of those conversations and that time. That, for me, is the most important thing.
The outpouring of love for Malcolm-Jamal Warner from Anthony Mackie and other actors has been incredibly sweet to see. Angela Bassett and Tracee Ellis Ross paid tribute, as they not only knew Warner but were able to work with him as well. TV host Sherri Shepard also expressed sadness of Warner’s passing. Several members of The Cosby Show’s cast also reached out, with Bill Cosby, Geoffrey Owens, Raven-Symoné and Keshia Knight Pulliam being among those to honor Warner following his death.
According to reports, the Warner family was on vacation in Costa Rica when Malcolm accidentally drowned while swimming at Playa Cocles. The doctor who tried to save Warner has since spoken out, and it’s been reported that medics tried to revive him on the scene but to no avail. It’s also been said that the Resident alum’s daughter was pulled out of the water by a surfer and taken to safety.
Malcolm Jamal-Warner leaves behind far more than an excellent body of work that will surely be enjoyed for generations to come. He also leaves behind family and friends who were fortunate enough to be in his presence during his time on Earth. We’d all be wise to take a cue from Anthony Mackie and appreciate the time we have with the people we care about while they’re here.
