Honorary ATLien: Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s Ties To Atlanta
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the beloved actor best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show. Warner, 54, reportedly passed away while vacationing with his family in Costa Rica.
The loss is felt profoundly in the city of Atlanta, where the actor spent a significant amount of time, leaving his mark on the city’s cultural landscape.
As reported by Fox 5 Atlanta, Warner’s ties to the city began during his time filming FOX’s The Resident, where he portrayed fan-favorite Dr. AJ “The Raptor” Austin. The show, which transformed the High Museum of Art into a fictional hospital, brought Warner to the city, and he quickly became an integral part of its creative and cultural fabric. Even after the series ended, Atlanta remained a hub for his artistic endeavors, with Warner frequently returning for performances, speaking engagements, and collaborations.
A passionate musician and spoken word artist, Warner was a fixture in Atlanta’s live music scene. He played bass with the Atlanta-based band Biological Misfits and fronted the jazz-funk group Miles Long, which headlined sold-out shows at City Winery earlier this year. His talents also graced prestigious events like Friday Jazz at the High Museum of Art and performances with Orchestra Noir.
Warner’s connection to Atlanta wasn’t limited to the arts. He used his platform to advocate for social causes and uplift the community. In 2023, he served as host of Morehouse College’s Thomas J. Blocker Society Gala, honoring Black excellence in Science and Medicine. He also delivered remarks during a SAG-AFTRA strike rally in the city in 2024, fighting for workers’ rights. Recently, during an episode of his Not All Hood (NAH) podcast, he featured fellow spoken word artist Tameka “Georgia Me” Harper. Posted just days before Warner’s death, the episode spoke about the gentrification of Atlanta and themes of Black identity.
Warner’s impact on Atlanta’s arts and culture scene is undeniable. His performances, advocacy, and community involvement have left an indelible mark on the city. As Atlanta and the world mourn his loss, his contributions to art, culture, and social justice will continue to inspire.
