Malcolm Jamal Warner's recent and surprising death at the age of 54 was as much a shock as it was very saddening to many who grew up with the positive images of a successful professional and stable black family portrayed on the Cosby Show that was viewed by millions worldwide. Images of his endearing portrayal of the lovable adolescent son of the iconic Bill Cosby, prominent physician Dr. Cliff Huxtable and his mother Phylicia Rashad, the ever clever attorney mom Claire Huxtable was a real psychological boost for black audiences. The Cosby show was a triumph and laid the foundation for future Black family oriented sitcoms and dramas alike. Flashbacks of the show quickly came to mind as I heard the news broadcasting over the radio. One scene came to mind almost immediately. The scene where Cosby goes into Theo's room and they go back and forth about spending money and budgeting.
Warner was one of the cast who made the transition from a child star to a successful adult actor, landing television sitcom roles and serious dramatic roles along the way. While his role as the formative years Theo remains in the psyche and consciousness of many Blacks, he had his hand in a number of cultural activities as he grew into adulthood, including movies and being a member of a band that was involved in a music project that won a Grammy along with Laylah Hathaway for their version of Stevie Wonder's " Jesus Children of America". See Stevie's thoughtful reflection about his passing captured by TMZ.
He was also a podcast host and involved in efforts to portray positive images of Blacks in the media. He struck gold for sure in his role as AJ in the Resident.
Of all the roles that I viewed him playing throughout the years, I really was impressed, almost transfixed by his intensely eccentric portrayal of acclaimed and in demand Neuro-surgeon Dr. AJ Austin on the network television show that became a Netflix series, "The Resident". I binged on all the episodes in that series and particularly enjoyed those that involved him dealing with the pressures of being a premiere class surgeon juggling his personal life with the professional one. It was a great show. I was hoping to see it being revived.
Rest in peace and power Malcolm. Prayers of comfort,healing and love go out to your family and friends.
Blessings,
