Rashad Honors Late ‘Cosby Show’ Son at Emmys

Lead During the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, Phylicia Rashad paid tribute to her late on-screen son Malcolm-Jamal Warner as she introduced the In Memoriam segment on Sunday, September 14, honoring his impact on television and audiences worldwide.

Nut Graf Rashad’s poignant homage underscores the enduring legacy of Warner’s work and highlights the industry’s collective effort to remember artists lost over the past year. The tribute resonated with viewers as a reminder of television’s power to shape lives and communities.

Main Part Subhead: Tribute at the Peacock Theatre

  • Rashad took the stage at the Peacock Theatre in downtown L.A., opening the segment by reflecting on Warner’s journey from beloved teenager on The Cosby Show to respected actor.
  • She noted, “He was a beloved teenager in an iconic television series who the world watched grow into manhood. Like all our friends and colleagues who transitioned this past year, Malcolm-Jamal Warner remains in our hearts”.

Subhead: Remembering Legacy

  • Emphasizing Warner’s broader influence, Rashad said, “Tonight, as is tradition at the Emmys, we remember them not just for their immense talent, but also for the way they made us believe in something bigger: the best that is within us”.
  • A musical performance by Vince Gill and Lainey Wilson of “Go Rest High on That Mountain” provided a somber backdrop, underscoring the emotional weight of the moment.

Subhead: Family’s Continued Mission

  • In the days leading up to the awards, Warner’s wife, Tenisha Warner, announced the launch of River & Ember and the official formation of the Warner Family Foundation, initiatives aimed at nurturing young artists and fostering creativity in children.
  • These efforts serve as an extension of the actor’s passion for mentoring and community engagement, ensuring his ideals endure beyond his screen presence.

Subhead: Broader In Memoriam

  • The segment also honored other notable talents, including Anne Burrell, Ozzy Osbourne and George Wendt, in a ceremony that balanced celebration with reflection.