Born In New Jersey, I Really Liked Malcolm-Jamal Warner [Op-Ed]

I was genuinely affected when I heard the news about the accidental drowning death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who died at age 54, while swimming in Costa Rica.

Warner Was Born In New Jersey

In Jersey City, New Jersey on August 18, 1970.

Warner’s Untimely Death

According to his Wikipedia page:

On July 20, 2025, Warner died while vacationing in Costa Rica, at the age of 54. He was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limón Province, when he was caught in a high current and drowned. He was pulled from the ocean by bystanders, according to authorities in Costa Rica. The official cause of death was confirmed as asphyxia by submersion due to drowning.

I’ve Been A Big Fan Of Warner’s Acting

Especially his acting as an adult. I had no problem with his childhood career on “The Bill Cosby Show,” where he played “Theo Huxtable.”

It was this role that was his most famous. This role brought him lasting fame.

However, my favorite Warner acting role was in the television series, “The Resident.”

Warner demonstrated great depth in this role. He was very convincing in portraying the role of a surgeon.

Life Is Fleeting

Warner’s shocking death should make you truly appreciate life. Warner was only 54 years old and just a few weeks away from his 55th Birthday.

It serves notice that tomorrow in this life is not guaranteed.

Warner Had Much More To Give

Warner was in the prime of his career. He had branched out into music, poetry and was landing great acting roles with regularity.

Warner’s death has hit me hard. It made me think about some pretty deep things … such as, What if today was the last day of your life?

I don’t believe in living fatalistically … however, I do strongly believe that we should live each day that we are given in a purpose-driven manner.

Here’s a link to my colleague, Eddie Davis article about Malcolm-Jamal Warner:

Read More: 5 Things You Didn’t Know About Malcolm-Jamal Warner

SOURCE: Wikipedia on the death of Malcom-Jamal Warner.