20 things to know about Malcolm Jamal Warner

American actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the iconic sitcom The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54.

Warner reportedly drowned over the weekend while vacationing in Costa Rica. According to the country’s Judicial Investigation Agency, the tragedy occurred around 2 p.m. local time on Sunday at Playa Grande, Cocles, in the Limón Province. Authorities said he was caught in a strong ocean current and dragged out to sea while swimming.

Bystanders managed to pull the actor to shore, where members of the Costa Rican Red Cross attempted resuscitation efforts. However, Warner was pronounced dead at the scene.

Here are 20 things to Know About Malcolm Jamal Warner

1.            Born in 1970: Malcolm-Jamal Warner was born on August 18, 1970, in Jersey City, New Jersey, and was raised in Los Angeles from the age of five.

2.            Named After Icons: He was named after civil rights activist Malcolm X and legendary jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal.

3.            Child Star Turned Icon: Warner began acting at age nine and was enrolled in professional acting schools, graduating from The Professional Children’s School in New York City.

4.            Breakout Role on The Cosby Show: He rose to fame as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show (1984–1992), which became one of the most successful sitcoms in TV history.

5.            Emmy Nominee: Warner was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series at the 38th Primetime Emmy Awards in 1986.

6.            Cast on Final Day: He auditioned on the final day of The Cosby Show’s nationwide search and was personally selected by Bill Cosby.

7.            Directed While Still a Teen: During his Cosby Show days, Warner began directing, including music videos for New Edition and Special Ed.

Read Also: Malcolm Jamal Warner, ‘The Cosby Show’ star, dies at 54

8.            Star of Malcolm & Eddie: From 1996 to 2000, he starred in the UPN sitcom Malcolm & Eddie alongside comedian Eddie Griffin.

9.            Versatile TV Career: He had key roles in series such as Reed Between the Lines, The Resident, Jeremiah, Suits, Major Crimes, and Sneaky Pete.

10.          Portrayed Al Cowlings: In 2016, he played Al Cowlings in The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story.

11.          Award-Winning Musician: In 2015, Warner won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Performance for his spoken word contribution to “Jesus Children” by Robert Glasper Experiment and Lalah Hathaway.

12.          Poet and Spoken Word Artist: Warner’s poetry, often performed live and accompanied by jazz music, addressed social issues and Black identity.

13.          Grammy Nomination in 2022: His spoken word album Hiding in Plain View was nominated for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards.

14.          Music Albums: He released two albums: The Miles Long Mixtape (2003) and Love & Other Social Issues (2007).

15.          Podcast Host: In 2024, Warner co-launched the Not All Hood (NAH) podcast, focusing on the real-life experiences of Black Americans.

16.          Children’s Programming: Warner hosted CBS Storybreak in the early 1990s, promoting literacy among children.

17.          Advocate for Health Education: He directed a public health video on HIV/AIDS awareness featuring Magic Johnson and Arsenio Hall.

18.          Private Family Life: Warner married later in life and had a daughter, though he intentionally kept his family out of the spotlight.

19.          Romantic Relationships: He dated several actresses, including Michelle Thomas, Karen Malina White, and Regina King. Thomas passed away in 1998, deeply affecting Warner.

20.          Tragic Death at 54: Warner died on July 20, 2025, after drowning while swimming in Costa Rica. He was caught in a powerful ocean current. His death was confirmed as due to asphyxia by drowning.

Malcolm Jamal Warner, ‘The Cosby Show’ star, dies at 54

American actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the iconic sitcom The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54.

Warner reportedly drowned over the weekend while vacationing in Costa Rica. According to the country’s Judicial Investigation Agency, the tragedy occurred around 2 p.m. local time on Sunday at Playa Grande, Cocles, in the Limón Province. Authorities said he was caught in a strong ocean current and dragged out to sea while swimming.

Bystanders managed to pull the actor to shore, where members of the Costa Rican Red Cross attempted resuscitation efforts. However, Warner was pronounced dead at the scene.

He is survived by his wife and daughter.

Warner rose to fame in the 1980s when he was cast as the Huxtables’ only son on The Cosby Show, which aired from 1984 to 1992. His portrayal earned him an Emmy nomination in 1986 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. In a 2023 interview, Warner revealed he was the final actor seen during the show’s nationwide audition before being handpicked by Bill Cosby himself.

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The sitcom, which dominated U.S. television ratings from 1985 to 1990, was praised for its groundbreaking portrayal of a successful Black American family, a rarity at the time. Reflecting on the impact of the show, Warner once said, “We were getting tens of thousands of fan letters from people saying, ‘Thank you so much for this show.’”

Following The Cosby Show, Warner continued a successful television career, appearing in series like Malcolm & Eddie alongside Eddie Griffin, who mourned him on social media, calling him “My big little brother” and writing, “R.I.P. King.”

He also made appearances on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Sesame Street, and more recently starred as Dr. AJ Austin in the Fox medical drama The Resident.

In a statement to Variety, Fox Entertainment said: “Everyone at Fox is heartbroken by the tragic loss of our friend and colleague, the extraordinary Malcolm-Jamal Warner. While his iconic roles – from comedic to dramatic – are unforgettable and timeless, Malcolm will be remembered most for his warmth, kind heart and the lasting impact he had on his friends, family and fans everywhere.”

Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, including from Questlove, Taraji P. Henson, Jennifer Hudson, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Magic Johnson.

Astronomer CEO Andy Byron resigns after viral Coldplay Concert video

A U.S.-based tech company has announced the resignation of its CEO following the circulation of a viral video showing him in an apparent embrace with a colleague during a Coldplay concert.

Astronomer, the company in question, confirmed in a public statement that Andy Byron had submitted his resignation, which the board has accepted.

The footage, captured on a large screen at a Coldplay show in Foxborough, Massachusetts, depicted a man and a woman hugging before seemingly realizing they were on camera and quickly ducking out of view. U.S. media identified the pair as Byron, who is reportedly married, and Kristin Cabot, the firm’s chief people officer.

In its statement released on Saturday, Astronomer emphasized its commitment to upholding its core values and workplace standards.

Read Also: Company confirms investigation into CEO’s viral Coldplay Concert video

“Our leaders are expected to model the highest standards of behavior and accountability. In this case, those expectations were not met,” the company said.

With Byron stepping down, the company’s chief product officer will continue to serve as interim CEO while a formal search for a new leader is conducted.

The brief moment at the concert—where the pair swayed to the music and then abruptly ducked—quickly gained traction online, garnering millions of views.

On stage, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin joked, “Either they’re having an affair, or they’re just very shy,” in response to the couple’s reaction.

Following the clip’s rapid spread online, Astronomer initiated an internal review and placed Byron on leave, leading up to his decision to resign.

Top 21 African rappers of all time

Africa has long been a fertile ground for musical innovation, and in the realm of hip hop, the continent has produced some of the most iconic and influential rappers of all time.

From West Africa to the southern tip of the continent, these artists have blended African identity with global hip-hop culture, crafting distinct sounds, lyrical depth, and undeniable charisma.

Here’s a look at some of the biggest and most influential rappers Africa has ever seen:

1. Soolking (Algeria)

With a genre-blending style that fuses rap, raï, and reggaeton, Soolking has become one of North Africa’s most recognizable names in music. His breakout hits have not only dominated French and Arabic-speaking markets but have also resonated across Africa and Europe.

2. Die Antwoord (South Africa)

This controversial and eccentric rap-rave duo brought South African counterculture to global stages. Known for their provocative visuals and unfiltered lyrics, Die Antwoord carved out a niche that challenged global perceptions of African music.

3. Sarkodie (Ghana)

A titan in African hip hop, Sarkodie is revered for his intricate flows in both English and Twi. He has won numerous international awards and is often credited with pushing Ghanaian rap into the global spotlight.

4. Olamide (Nigeria)

Olamide is a street king and a trendsetter in Nigeria’s rap scene. His use of Yoruba in his lyrics, combined with consistent hitmaking and the development of new talent through his YBNL label, has cemented his legacy in African music history.

5. ElGrandeToto (Morocco)

One of the leading voices in North African trap and drill, ElGrandeToto blends Arabic and French effortlessly while delivering powerful verses that speak to urban life, youth culture, and personal ambition.

6. Ice Prince (Nigeria)

Known for the smash hit “Oleku,” Ice Prince became one of the early Nigerian rappers to successfully break into mainstream music. His cool delivery and stylish presence set him apart in the early 2010s.

7. MI Abaga (Nigeria)

Often referred to as “The Chairman,” MI revolutionized Nigerian hip hop with his thoughtful lyricism and genre-defining albums. He elevated the standard of rap music in Nigeria and mentored a generation of new artists.

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8. AKA (South Africa)

The late AKA was a lyrical genius and pop culture icon in South Africa. With his fusion of hip hop and Afrobeats, he left an indelible mark on the music industry before his untimely death in 2023.

9. Nasty C (South Africa)

One of Africa’s youngest rap exports, Nasty C gained global recognition for his technical skill, storytelling, and polished production. He has collaborated with international stars and continues to push boundaries.

10. HHP (South Africa)

A pioneer of Motswako rap, Hip Hop Pantsula (HHP) was a beloved figure who rapped in multiple South African languages, promoting cultural pride and lyrical diversity.

11. Cassper Nyovest (South Africa)

With multiple platinum albums and historic concerts, Cassper Nyovest became a household name through both music and entrepreneurship. His influence extends beyond rap into fashion and business.

12. Phyno (Nigeria)

Phyno rose to fame with Igbo-infused rap tracks, becoming a symbol of linguistic pride. His ability to seamlessly blend indigenous language with mainstream sounds has won him a loyal fanbase.

13. Naeto C (Nigeria)

A pioneer in Nigerian rap, Naeto C brought suave flows and Western-influenced rap to the early 2000s scene. His music helped shape the commercial direction of Nigerian hip hop.

14. Khuli Chana (South Africa)

Another flagbearer of the Motswako movement, Khuli Chana earned respect for his intelligent bars and authentic South African sound, using Setswana and English with finesse.

15. M.anifest (Ghana)

Known for his poetic delivery and sociopolitical commentary, M.anifest is celebrated for his intellectual lyricism and progressive voice in Ghanaian music.

16. Omar Sterling (Ghana)

A member of the R2Bees duo, Omar Sterling brings introspection and streetwise narratives to his solo projects. His lyrical versatility has made him a staple in Ghanaian rap culture.

17. Kwesta (South Africa)

With a deep voice and poetic storytelling, Kwesta embodies the essence of authentic South African hip hop. He is known for award-winning albums and classic hits like “Ngud’”.

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18. Reggie Rockstone (Ghana)

Often hailed as the “Godfather of Hiplife,” Reggie Rockstone pioneered the fusion of hip hop and highlife in Ghana, paving the way for modern rap acts in West Africa.

19. Modenine (Nigeria)

A lyrical purist, Modenine is often called Nigeria’s most technically gifted rapper, known for his deep bars and punchlines.

20. Vector (Nigeria)

Lyrically sharp and philosophically deep, Vector blends bars with bold commentary, making him a respected figure in Nigerian hip-hop.

21. Reminisce (Nigeria)

Bringing indigenous street rap in Yoruba to the charts, Reminisce is known for his gritty sound and longevity.

Top 10 must-watch movies on Netflix this weekend

If you’re staying in this weekend and need movie recommendations, Netflix has a solid lineup of trending films currently capturing viewers’ attention globally.

From action-packed thrillers to hilarious comedies and animated adventures, lined up are the Top 10 most-watched movies on Netflix this weekend you shouldn’t miss:

1. KPop Demon Hunters

KPop Demon Hunters

Viewership: 24.2 million views
Runtime: 1hr 40min
Blending high-energy K-pop choreography with thrilling demon-slaying action, KPop Demon Hunters is Netflix’s current top-streaming movie. With over 40 million viewing hours, it’s a must-see for fans of fantasy, music, and fast-paced storytelling.

2. Madea’s Destination Wedding

Madea’s Destination Wedding

Viewership: 19.1 million views
Runtime: 1hr 44min
Tyler Perry returns as Madea in this hilarious new installment set in a chaotic destination wedding. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the franchise, this comedy guarantees plenty of laughs.

3. The Old Guard 2

The Old Guard 2

Viewership: 16 million views
Runtime: 1hr 47min
Charlize Theron is back in action as immortal warrior Andy in the sequel to the hit film The Old Guard. Expect intense action sequences, emotional twists, and new characters in this fantasy epic.

Read Also: Netflix beats earnings expectations as revenue surges 16% in Q2

4. Trainwreck: The Real Project X

Trainwreck: The Real Project X

Viewership: 7.4 million views
Runtime: 48min
A documentary-style deep dive into the chaos of a wild party gone wrong. Trainwreck explores how one night spiraled into a cultural moment, inspired by real-life events.

5. The Old Guard (Part 1)

The Old Guard (Part 1)

Viewership: 4.9 million views
Runtime: 2hr 6min
Before watching the sequel, catch up on the original film that started it all. This gripping tale of immortal warriors is a fan-favorite and sets the tone for its explosive follow-up.

6. Infinite

Infinite

Viewership: 4.2 million views
Runtime: 1hr 46min
Mark Wahlberg stars in this sci-fi thriller about reincarnated warriors with centuries of memories. Infinite combines action, mind-bending plots, and visual spectacle.

7. Plane

Plane

Viewership: 3.3 million views
Runtime: 1hr 47min
An adrenaline-pumping survival thriller set in a war zone after a commercial flight crash. Plane is perfect for viewers who love edge-of-your-seat suspense.

8. Grown Ups 2

Grown Ups 2

Viewership: 3 million views
Runtime: 1hr 41min
Adam Sandler and friends return in this goofy, fun sequel that’s all about family, friendship, and outrageous pranks. Great for a light-hearted movie night.

9. Penguins of Madagascar: The Movie

Penguins of Madagascar: The Movie

Viewership: 2.9 million views
Runtime: 1hr 32min
The adorable and mischievous penguins from Madagascar take center stage in their own spy-themed adventure. A perfect pick for families and animation lovers.

10. The Quick and the Dead

The Quick and the Dead

Viewership: 2.9 million views
Runtime: 1hr 45min
A cult Western classic featuring Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman, and a young Leonardo DiCaprio. The Quick and the Dead is a stylish gun-slinging throwback worth rewatching.

Astronomer CEO Andy Byron placed on leave after viral Coldplay Concert incident

Andy Byron, the Chief Executive Officer of tech company Astronomer, has been placed on leave following a viral video incident involving a couple at a Coldplay concert that sparked widespread speculation and public scrutiny.

The company confirmed that co-founder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy has assumed the role of interim CEO pending further developments. A formal investigation into the matter has been launched.

The controversy erupted after a video circulated online showing a man and woman, whose identities remain unconfirmed, being spotlighted on the “kiss cam” during Coldplay’s performance at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. As the couple attempted to hide their faces, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin made a light-hearted comment, suggesting, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.”

Read Also: Andy Byron’s wife removes last name amid viral cheating scandal

The moment quickly gained traction on social media, prompting a wave of speculation about the individuals involved. In response to the attention, the company issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to professional conduct and accountability at all leadership levels. It stated that the investigation would clarify all relevant issues surrounding the incident.

Further developments during the concert included Martin appearing to express concern about the fallout from his on-stage joke, telling the audience, “I hope we didn’t do something bad.”

Although the company has not confirmed the identities of those in the video, it clarified that other employees were not involved and dismissed reports suggesting otherwise. Sources close to the company indicated that internal deliberations and negotiations over Byron’s exit package contributed to delays in the public response.

Astronomer’s board emphasized that more details would be disclosed as the investigation progresses.

Company confirms investigation into CEO’s viral Coldplay Concert video

U.S.-based tech company Astronomer has confirmed it has launched a formal investigation after a video taken at a recent Coldplay concert went viral, sparking widespread speculation about the conduct of the company’s CEO, Andy Byron.

The controversy began when concertgoers recorded a couple spotted on the big screen during Coldplay’s performance. Their reaction quickly went viral, especially after lead singer Chris Martin jokingly commented on stage that the pair might be having an “affair.” The remark, though made in jest, fueled online speculation and triggered deeper scrutiny as users attempted to identify the individuals involved.

On Friday, July 18, Astronomer addressed the situation with a statement shared on the company’s LinkedIn page, saying:

“Astronomer is committed to the values and culture that have guided us since our founding. Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability.”

Read Also: Things to know about Andy Byron, the astronomer CEO caught in viral Coldplay Concert moment

The statement further confirmed that the Board of Directors has initiated a formal investigation and promised that more details would be released soon. While the company did not name anyone seen in the viral footage, it made clear that:

“The CEO has not issued any public statement, and reports claiming that other employees were present at the event or appeared in the video are incorrect.”

The incident has drawn wide attention on social media, with some users alleging that the individuals in the video may have a personal connection to top-level executives at the company. As of now, these claims remain unverified.

This unfolding situation highlights the growing impact of social media virality on corporate governance and personal reputations, especially when private moments become public spectacle.

Astronomer is a software company known for developing tools that support data orchestration using Apache Airflow.

WNBA star Paige Bueckers openly acknowledges relationship with Azzi Fudd

Paige Bueckers, standout rookie for the Dallas Wings, has confirmed her relationship with fellow basketball star Azzi Fudd, putting to rest months of speculation surrounding their close bond.

The revelation came during the WNBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis, where Bueckers took part in several media appearances. One standout moment occurred in an interview with WAG Talk, where the former UConn guard was quizzed on facts about Fudd, who was affectionately referred to as her “D1 girlfriend.”

Bueckers answered questions with ease, identifying the high school Fudd attended, her athletic accomplishments, and even the team that drafted Fudd’s mother, Katie Smrcka-Duffy Fudd. The moment that confirmed what fans had long suspected came when Bueckers was asked to reveal who her girlfriend was. Smiling, she simply responded: “Azzi Fudd.”

Read Also: Andy Byron’s wife removes last name amid viral cheating scandal

Although Bueckers did not disclose how long the pair have been in a relationship, she spoke fondly of Fudd. When asked who she would trust to take a last-second shot if her life were on the line, she answered without hesitation: “Azzi Fudd.”

WNBA star Paige Bueckers openly acknowledges relationship with Azzi Fudd

Fudd, who played alongside Bueckers at UConn, had a strong 2024–25 season, averaging 13.6 points, 2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. She delivered a standout performance in the national championship game, scoring 24 points to help the Huskies clinch the title against the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Their connection has also extended off the court. Earlier in July, Bueckers revealed that Fudd often helps choose her game sneakers, although she noted that Nike would handle her footwear for the All-Star Game.

Bueckers has had a stellar debut season in the WNBA, leading all rookies in scoring (18.4 points per game), assists (5.5), and steals (1.7). She was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and has quickly become one of the league’s brightest young stars.

Their relationship marks a high-profile moment for representation in women’s sports, with fans across the country showing support for the couple.

Astronomer CEO Andy Byron apology goes viral after Coldplay Concert scandal

A Coldplay concert turned into an internet spectacle after Astronomer CEO Andy Byron was allegedly caught in a compromising moment with his company’s HR head, Kristin Cabot — a scene that has since gone viral and sparked massive online outrage.

The incident occurred during the band’s recent tour stop at Gillette Stadium in Boston, where the venue’s kiss-cam landed on Byron and Cabot, who were seen embracing on a balcony. As frontman Chris Martin playfully commented on the pair, the two appeared visibly startled, quickly turning away from the camera in an attempt to hide.

Martin quipped, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy,” a comment that quickly took on a life of its own as the internet began investigating the pair’s identities.

It didn’t take long before online users identified the man as Andy Byron, the married CEO of Astronomer — a data orchestration software company — and the woman as Kristin Cabot, his colleague and the company’s Chief People Officer. Both Byron and Cabot are reportedly married to other people.

What began as a seemingly awkward concert moment escalated into a scandal when a statement, allegedly from Byron, began circulating on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok.

In the unverified but widely shared note, Byron appeared to acknowledge wrongdoing, writing:

“I sincerely apologise to my wife, my children, and my colleagues. You deserve better from me as a partner, as a father, and as a leader.”

Read Also: Andy Byron’s wife removes last name amid viral cheating scandal

The statement continued with tones of accountability and remorse: “A personal mistake has become a public spectacle. I accept full responsibility and ask for privacy for my family during this time.”

It ended with a striking reference to Coldplay lyrics: “Lights will guide you home, and ignite your bones, and I will try to fix you.”

While neither Byron nor Cabot have officially confirmed or denied the authenticity of the statement or addressed the incident publicly, the fallout continues to grow. Online commentators have been quick to criticize what they see as a serious lapse in professional ethics, especially given the power dynamics involved in a CEO-HR relationship.

Some users expressed support for Byron’s wife, Megan Kerrigan Byron, an educator and mother of two. Reports claim she has since removed Byron’s surname from her social media accounts following the video’s release.

Astronomer has not issued any public comment regarding the incident as of the time of this report.

The Coldplay kiss-cam moment, meant to spotlight sweet gestures between concertgoers, has instead spotlighted the personal lives of two tech executives — and raised questions about workplace boundaries, public accountability, and the limits of privacy in a viral world.

Things to know about Andy Byron, the astronomer CEO caught in viral Coldplay Concert moment

A romantic moment turned viral scandal when a couple was caught cuddling on the kiss-cam at a Coldplay concert, only for internet sleuths to identify the man as Andy Byron, the married CEO of tech firm Astronomer.

As the video sparked affair rumors and online backlash, here’s what we know about the man at the center of the drama.

1. He’s the CEO of Astronomer, a Data Software Company

Andy Byron currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Astronomer, a leading data orchestration platform built around Apache Airflow. He’s been in this role for over two years, leading the company through what employees have called a “transformative” period.

2. His Viral Moment Happened at a Coldplay Concert

On July 16, 2025, Andy Byron and a woman were caught on the kiss-cam during a Coldplay concert at Gillette Stadium in Boston. As frontman Chris Martin joked about the couple possibly “having an affair” after they ducked the camera, the clip went viral — and online detectives quickly identified the man as Andy.

3. He’s Married With Two Kids

Andy is married to Megan Kerrigan Byron, an educator. The couple live in New York and share two children. However, following the Coldplay incident, it was reported that Megan removed her last name from her Facebook profile — sparking more speculation.

4. The Woman at the Concert Wasn’t His Wife

The woman seen with Andy wasn’t Megan — she’s believed to be Kristin Cabot, the Chief People Officer at Astronomer. Their attempts to hide from the camera only fueled the controversy.

Read Also: Andy Byron’s wife removes last name amid viral cheating scandal

5. Kristin Cabot is Also from the Tech Industry

Kristin, a Boston native, holds a degree in Political Science from Gettysburg College. She joined Astronomer in November 2024, and described the company’s direction under Andy as “exciting and transformative.” She was previously married but filed for divorce in 2018.

6. His Career Includes a Stint at Lacework

Before Astronomer, Andy held an executive role at Lacework, a cloud security firm based in Mountain View, California. His experience spans leadership roles in several high-growth tech firms.

7. He’s Reportedly Worth Tens of Millions

Andy Byron’s estimated net worth is between $20 million and $70 million, largely tied to his stake in Astronomer and prior earnings in the tech industry.

8. The Scandal Could Impact His Professional Standing

Given the viral nature of the incident, and the fact that both individuals work at the same company, there’s growing speculation about HR implications and potential fallout — both at home and in the workplace.