Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s 10 Best Roles: The Cosby Show to The Resident and Beyond

Remembering Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s most iconic TV and film roles, including Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show and Dr AJ Austin on The Resident.

Sakina Kaukawala
Written by Sakina Kaukawala , Entertainment Journalist
Published on Jul 22, 2025 | 12:04 PM IST | 29K
(Image Courtesy: YouTube)
Malcolm-Jamal Warner in The Resident and The Cosby Show (via YouTube and IMDb)

Trigger Warning: This article contains references to an individual's death.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for playing Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54. The Emmy-nominated actor reportedly passed away on Sunday, July 20, after drowning off the coast of Costa Rica. Warner's career spanned decades, with memorable performances in sitcoms, dramas, and films. As fans mourn the loss, here's a look back at 10 of his most iconic roles.

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The Cosby Show

Warner became a household name as Theo Huxtable, the lovable teen son of Cliff and Clair Huxtable. The sitcom followed an upper-middle-class Black family living in Brooklyn, New York. His chemistry with Bill Cosby and Phylicia Rashad played a significant role in defining the show's success. Warner earned an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for this role.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner in The Cosby Show (via YouTube)

The Resident

Warner took on a serious medical role as Dr. AJ Austin in The Resident, a drama set in Chastain Park Memorial Hospital. He played a skilled and confident surgeon, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Warner appeared in nearly 100 episodes of the FOX series.

Malcolm & Eddie

In this buddy sitcom, Warner starred as Malcolm McGee alongside Eddie Griffin’s Eddie Sherman. The show focused on two very different roommates living and working in Kansas City. Warner played the calm, by-the-book type, which contrasted with Griffin’s energetic personality.

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Malcolm-Jamal Warner in Malcolm & Eddie (via IMDb)

Fool’s Gold

Warner appeared in the 2008 romantic adventure Fool’s Gold, sharing the screen with Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson. The film centered on a couple searching for lost treasure while trying to rekindle their relationship. Warner had a supporting role in this light-hearted film.

Jeremiah

Warner co-starred with Luke Perry in this post-apocalyptic Showtime series. He played Kurdy Malloy, a loyal companion to Perry’s Jeremiah, in a world ravaged by a virus that killed most adults. The series ran for two seasons and gained a cult following.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner in Jeremiah (via YouTube)

The Magic School Bus

Warner lent his voice to the animated educational show The Magic School Bus, where he voiced the Producer. The series was a staple for children in the 1990s, known for turning science lessons into exciting adventures.

Restaurant

In this 1998 indie film, Warner appeared alongside Adrien Brody and Elise Neal. The story followed a group of struggling artists working at a restaurant while chasing their dreams. The film gave Warner a chance to flex his dramatic acting chops.

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Malcolm-Jamal Warner in Restaurant (via YouTube)

Tyson

Warner played Rory Holloway in Tyson, a 1995 biopic about boxing legend Mike Tyson. The film was nominated for an NAACP Image Award and featured Warner in a pivotal supporting role.

Suits

In the hit legal drama Suits, Warner appeared as Julius Rowe, a recurring character on the show. His role added depth to the series, which focused on a college dropout navigating life at a top law firm.

American Crime Story

Warner portrayed Al Cowlings in The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story. Cowlings was O.J. Simpson’s longtime friend who famously drove the white Ford Bronco during the televised police chase. The FX series received widespread acclaim, and Warner’s role was part of a powerful ensemble cast.

ALSO READ: Malcolm-Jamal Warner Passes Away at 54: Tracee Ellis Ross, Viola Davis, Taraji P Henson Pay Tributes to The Cosby Show Star

Credits: USA Today
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