Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s latest television role touched viewers during this week’s episode Mother’s love for small town murder broadcast.
The actor, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable in The Cosby Show, died on July 20 in Costa Rica from an accidental drowning.
Warner appeared as Richard Bannister, a single father struggling to raise his teenage daughter.
Showrunner Ian Weir described his performance as “absolutely amazing” and said Warner became “the emotional heart of the story.”
However, he added that seeing the actor bring the character to life revealed the full depth of the episode.
Rossif Sutherland, who plays Police Chief Karl Alberg, praised Warner’s presence on set, calling him “a generous soul” and highlighting his professionalism and ability to handle last-minute changes with ease.
Outside of acting, he was a devoted father to his 8-year-old daughter with wife Tenisha Warner.
Fans and colleagues said his latest appearance reflected the warmth and care he showed in real life.
The episode aired exactly as it was filmed, with no edits made after Warner’s death. Critics and viewers describe the performance as a heartfelt farewell and a fitting tribute to a beloved actor.
Warner’s role in it Murder in a small town showcased his talent, compassion and lasting impact on television, giving audiences a memorable final glimpse of his work.
