Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s Famous Buddy Still Shocked by His Beloved Friend’s Passing

Malcolm-Jamal Warner left a lasting legacy, and that’s clear through the many tributes and kind words that are being spoken about the actor after his passing.

Lou Diamond Phillips is just the latest, telling TMZ all about how Warner “just generated love.” He went on to characterize Warner’s death “as a big shock and a huge loss.”

Warner tragically passed away on Sunday, July 20 after he was swept away by a powerful current while swimming at Playa Grande beach in Cahuita, Limón, Costa Rica.

Was Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s Daughter With Him When He Drowned?

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Warner’s daughter was with him at the time of his passing, but was rescued on the beach by bystanders.

Others on the beach reportedly saw Warner and his daughter “struggling and dove in to help,” according to ABC News. The outlet added that “a surfer used his board to bring Warner’s daughter to safety, and a volunteer lifeguard pulled Warner and another surfer to shore, where Warner was given 45 minutes of CPR, according to police.”

However, People magazine released a new statement on Thursday, July 24, which included new details. Specifically, the police clarified that Warner’s daughter was not in the water with him at the time he drowned.

“Mr. Warner was playing with his daughter at the seashore at one point. He then left her out of the water, and he and a friend of his entered the sea,” the statement said. “It was at that moment that they were swept away by the current, and the friend managed to get out.”

“However, Mr. Warner was unable to get out and was pulled out by several people on the beach. He received care from Red Cross officials, but was pronounced dead at the scene.”

Celebrities Pay Tribute To Malcolm-Jamal Warner

So many celebrities spoke about Warner’s impact after his death, so here are a few of the tributes posted.

Tracee Ellis Ross: “I love you, Malcolm. First I met you as Theo with the rest of the world then you were my first TV husband. My heart is so so sad. What an actor and friend you were: warm, gentle, present, kind, thoughtful, deep, funny, elegant. You made the world a brighter place. Sending so much love to your family. I’m so sorry for this unimaginable loss.”

Geoffrey Owens (via NBC News): “This tragedy has almost left me speechless. Malcolm was a lovely man; a sweet and sensitive soul.  I respected him for many reasons, including the fact that he genuinely loved the act of creation.  He had the mind of an actor and the heart of a musician. He was generous, too; I did a theater project long ago and asked him to participate; and he was there for me.  My heart goes out to his family.” 

Angela Bassett: “When a special soul like @malcolmjamalwar leaves us far too soon, words fail to adequately describe the unimaginable grief. Malcolm was more than a gifted actor; he was a longtime friend. In this life, Malcolm is what’s known as a soulful artist whose deep commitment to his craft left an impression on me that has never faded. He carried the weight of cultural legacy with grace, and he always made space for others to shine. His light will remain in our hearts always.”

Beyoncé (via her website): “Rest in power, Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Thanks for being a big part of our shared television history. You will be missed.”

Viola Davis: “I actually am speechless. No words! Theo was OUR son, OUR brother, OUR friend… He was absolutely so familiar, and we rejoiced at how TV got it right!! But… Malcolm got it right… and now… we reveled in your life and are gutted by this loss. Blessings and prayers to your family and loved ones… We will speak your name—always.”