Phylicia Rashad Pays Tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner at the 2025 Emmy Awards

Phylicia Rashad Pays Emotional Tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner at 2025 Emmys

A hushed reverence filled the room as Phylicia Rashad took the stage at the 2025 Emmy Awards on September 14 to honor the late Malcolm-Jamal Warner. During the ceremony’s in memoriam segment, Rashad spoke with heartfelt sincerity about her former on-screen son. “He was a beloved teenager in an iconic television series who the world watched grow into manhood,” she said. “Like all our friends and colleagues who transitioned this year, Malcolm-Jamal Warner remains in our hearts.”

Following Rashad’s tribute, Lainey Wilson and Vince Gill performed the poignant ballad “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” accompanying a montage honoring celebrities lost over the past year, including Ozzy Osbourne, Maggie Smith, and David Lynch.

Warner, widely recognized for his portrayal of Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, tragically passed away in July 2025 at the age of 54 after drowning off the coast of Costa Rica. His sudden death left fans and colleagues in shock. Beyond The Cosby Show, Warner built a distinguished career with roles in Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines, and The Resident.

In interviews, Warner often reflected on the impact of The Cosby Show, noting how it inspired generations to value education and family. He nearly missed the opportunity to play Theo Huxtable, securing the role only after being the final actor considered in casting—a part that would define his career.

Tributes poured in after his passing. Tracee Ellis Ross, Warner’s co-star on Reed Between the Lines, remembered him on social media as her “first TV husband,” celebrating his warmth, depth, and generosity. Bill Cosby also acknowledged Warner’s professionalism and talent.

Other prominent figures, including Jamie Foxx, Taraji P. Henson, Jennifer Hudson, and Questlove, shared their grief, describing Warner as a mentor, cultural icon, and guiding light. Questlove highlighted how Warner’s portrayal of Theo profoundly influenced his own coming-of-age experience.

Though Warner’s life was tragically cut short, his legacy endures. As Rashad noted during the ceremony, his memory lives on through the stories he told, the characters he brought to life, and the countless lives he touched.