Anthony Mackie recently delivered a touching reflection on his friendship with the late Malcolm‑Jamal Warner, describing him as “a beautiful human being” and highlighting the meaningful impact Warner had on his life and career.
While promoting the second season of Twisted Metal, actor Anthony Mackie opened up about his close bond with Malcolm‑Jamal Warner. He said, “I’m proud to say Malcolm‑Jamal Warner was a friend of mine. He’s somebody that I knew and spent time with, and just was such a beautiful human being”. Mackie emphasised how precious every conversation with Warner was, stating, “And every time I was around him, I was able to take full advantage of those conversations and that time. That, for me, is the most important thing”.
Warner, best known as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, tragically passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 54 while on vacation in Costa Rica after an accidental drowning.
In the same interview, Mackie also paid tribute to another influential figure in his life, Andre Braugher, who passed away in December 2023 from lung cancer at age 61. Mackie reflected on the early days of his theatre career in New York and the transformative guidance he received from Braugher. He encouraged others to embrace authenticity in their relationships, advising that a mentor can only truly see the real you if you allow that version of yourself to show up.
Mackie’s costar Stephanie Beatriz echoed these sentiments, speaking to the power of grief and memory. She reminded audiences that in moments of loss, what endures most are the memories shaped by genuine connection, when people showed up as themselves, not as a performance of what they thought others wanted.
Their conversation reflects a broader outpouring of affection from peers and admirers. Warner was celebrated not only for his iconic role in television but for the depth of his humanity, while being curious, gracious, and deeply engaged in conversation and mentorship in his own right. Mackie’s tribute stands out as especially heartfelt, rooted in personal memories and meaningful connection rather than celebrity gestures.
Mackie reminded us how valuable each conversation and encounter can become when cherished intentionally. He emphasised showing up as you are in relationships, especially with mentors and people you admire. For Mackie, Warner’s legacy isn’t just Theo Huxtable, it’s the thoughtful friend, creative artist, and empathic human being behind the role.
Mackie’s reflections offer more than a eulogy, they’re a reminder that friendship, grounded in honesty and presence, has the power to transcend even tragedy. His tribute to Warner calls us to recognise the beauty in human connection and to live in a way that honours those relationships while we can.
Source: deadline
