Warner Family Launches Foundation in Tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Lead: On September 12, 2025, Tenisha Warner, widow of late actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, unveiled the Warner Family Foundation and River & Ember initiative to honor his legacy and empower young artists.

Nut Graf: Nearly two months after Warner’s tragic July drowning in Costa Rica, his family is transforming grief into action. By establishing these programs, they aim to continue his commitment to nurturing children’s creativity and strengthening family bonds.

Foundation and Initiative Details

  • Tenisha and their daughter announced the Warner Family Foundation, dedicated to providing scholarships and resources for young interdisciplinary artists.
  • They also launched River & Ember, a creative platform offering seasonal toolkits of art and exercises to foster emotional well-being in children and families.

Personal Reflection and Anniversary Tribute

Tenisha shared a rare wedding photo from 2017, writing on Instagram that her “heart is wide open” ahead of their eighth anniversary on September 13. She recalled still hearing his laughter and feeling his embrace, describing their love as “the first story I ever wanted to keep sharing”.

Continuing Malcolm-Jamal’s Vision

Malcolm-Jamal Warner was renowned for his roles on The Cosby Show and The Resident, as well as his Grammy-winning work in music. Through these new ventures:

  • The foundation will award the Malcolm-Jamal Warner Creative Legacy Scholarship for artists aged 14-22 who demonstrate talent across multiple disciplines.
  • River & Ember’s toolkits will include guided rituals, storytelling, and creative prompts to help families navigate emotions and build lasting memories.

Impact and Future Plans

Tenisha emphasized that these efforts are a “continuation of the essence he represented,” ensuring Warner’s belief in nurturing inner light lives on. With both programs officially launching today, the Warner family invites supporters to join in celebrating his enduring influence on art, family, and community.