Malcolm-Jamal Warner, renowned for his portrayals as Theo Huxtable in The Cosby Show and AJ Austin in The Resident, has died at the age of 54. On Sunday, the actor tragically drowned near Cocles beach in Limon, Costa Rica, according to confirmation from Costa Rican National Police.

In the wake of Warner’s devastating death, which authorities attribute to asphyxia resulting from accidental drowning, the cast of The Resident have been honouring the beloved performer. The medical series initially aired on Fox from 2018 to 2023, subsequently attracting a fresh global audience on Netflix following its debut on the streaming service last year.

Numerous prominent cast members, who worked closely alongside Warner throughout the series, have issued touching tributes to the departed star. The character of legendary surgeon AJ Austin made his debut in the programme’s inaugural season, becoming a principal cast member in season 2 and remaining until the series concluded with its sixth season.

Emily VanCamp, who portrayed Nic Nevin in the hospital drama, turned to Instagram to post a monochrome photograph of the pair together, reports The Mirror.

She wrote beneath the image: “I’m not sure I have the words to express what a gift it was to know you and to work with you. Your thunderous laugh, the bear hugs, our chats about love, family and life.

“A true family man with so much integrity and an endlessly generous spirit. You walked the walk my friend. Sending all my love to your beautiful family and all of those who knew you and were close to you. Beyond heartbroken.”

Shaunette Renée Wilson, who played Dr. Mina Okafor and shared a close on-screen bond with Warner’s character AJ, took to Instagram with a touching tribute, posting a still of them in their medical attire.

Her heartfelt message read: “Last week I had the impulse to text you for one of our lengthy heart check-ins. I truly wish I had so that one of the last words I had of you were of your wisdom, kindness, and that uncanny ability you had to be both unserious and profound within a single sentence.

“I’m beyond heartbroken. You were such a dear friend to me. My heart goes out to the family and loved ones he leaves behind. I cannot conceive the amount of grief with such a tragedy.

“Rest in Power, Malcolm. It was a joy to be Mina to your AJ. I will miss you deeply.”

In a similar vein, Manish Dayal, who portrays Devon Pravesh, shared a poignant video of Warner addressing an audience about his life in the limelight.

His caption, accompanied by a heartbroken emoji, expressed: “Bro, I wish I had the words… You always did.”

Morris Chestnut, known as Barrett Cain on the show, also paid homage to Warner with a moving post featuring photos and a clip of their shared scenes.

He wrote: “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Working alongside him on The Resident was an honor.

“He brought so much depth, warmth, and wisdom to every scene and every conversation. One of the nicest in the business. Rest easy, brother. Your legacy lives on.”