EXCLUSIVE: New Details Emerge in Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s Death — Surfboard Strike Suspected
New information is surfacing about the tragic death of The Cosby Show star Malcolm-Jamal Warner, and it’s painting a more complicated picture than originally reported.
According to sources close to the family, the Emmy-nominated actor was swimming at Cocles Beach in Costa Rica when the fatal incident occurred. Cocles is known for its crystal-clear water, strong surf, and popularity among international surfers — but it’s also known for unpredictable waves and strong currents.
While early reports described Malcolm’s passing as a drowning accident, Media Take Out has learned there may have been more to the story.
Insiders allege that Malcolm was struck by a runaway surfboard while swimming with a friend — a hit that may have severely injured him and compromised his ability to swim or signal for help. Those close to the actor are urging Costa Rican officials not to rush to label it a simple swimming accident. They’re calling for a deeper investigation, especially given Malcolm’s reputation as a strong and experienced swimmer who was well aware of ocean risks like rip currents.
“If he was struck in the head or chest by a board, that would change everything,” one source said. “Malcolm wasn’t careless in the water. Something unexpected had to have happened.”
Adding to the mystery, we’re told another man was seriously injured during the same incident and is currently hospitalized in critical condition in Costa Rica. Officials have not yet released his identity or stated whether the two cases are related.
Warner, who was just 54, is best remembered for his role as Theo Huxtable, but he was far more than a sitcom star. He was a director, a Grammy-winning musician, and a beloved voice in both entertainment and activism. At the time of his death, he was hosting a podcast, Not All Hood, and still deeply involved in creative work.
This developing story has left fans and loved ones shaken — and those who knew him best are not ready to let the narrative end without answers. They want the truth. They want justice. And most of all, they want to honor a man who gave so much of himself — on screen and beyond.
We’ll continue to update as more details become available.