Stevie Wonder Mourns 'Griot' Malcolm-Jamal Warner's Passing: A Legacy of Truth and Positivity

SHOCKING TRAGEDY ROCKS HOLLYWOOD: STEVIE WONDER SPEAKS OUT ON MALCOLM-JAMAL WARNER'S SUDDEN DEATH

In a heart-wrenching interview, music legend Stevie Wonder has broken his silence on the tragic passing of his dear friend and fellow entertainer Malcolm-Jamal Warner. The 75-year-old singer, who recently starred alongside Warner in a memorable episode of "The Cosby Show," revealed that he is still reeling from the news of Warner's accidental drowning in Costa Rica.

"It's like a part of me has been ripped away," Wonder shared with TMZ in an exclusive conversation. "Malcolm was more than just a talented actor and musician – he was a true artist, a keeper of our culture and heritage."

Wonder reminisced about their time working together on the hit sitcom, which aired from 1984 to 1992. He fondly recalled the numerous iconic episodes that featured Warner's character, Theo Huxtable, as well as the actor's impressive range and versatility.

"What struck me most about Malcolm was his commitment to telling the truth," Wonder emphasized. "In a world where lies and deception are often rewarded, he stood tall for what was right – even if it meant going against the status quo."

The legendary singer also praised Warner's dedication to spreading positivity and hope through his work. "Malcolm's legacy is one of light and love," Wonder said. "He reminded us all that we have the power to create change, to uplift each other, and to make a difference in this world – no matter how small it may seem."

Wonder also expressed concern for the entertainment industry as a whole, urging his fellow artists to follow Warner's lead by prioritizing truth and authenticity over material success.

"I hope that writers, singers, rappers will begin to spread messages of positivity, of hope, and us moving this world forward," Wonder said. "We must learn from Malcolm's example and strive to create content that inspires and uplifts – not just for our own gain, but for the greater good."

As news of Warner's tragic passing continues to shock fans around the globe, details are emerging about his final moments on earth. According to eyewitnesses, Warner was swimming with his 8-year-old daughter at a beach in Costa Rica when a powerful rip current swept him away.

Volunteer lifeguard Mike Geist recounted the harrowing experience of trying to save Warner's life. "We did everything we could," Geist said. "But it just wasn't meant to be."

Despite their best efforts, including a 45-minute CPR session by a team of doctors and emergency responders, Warner was pronounced dead at the scene.

Warner's cause of death has been ruled as asphyxiation by submersion – a painful reminder that even in paradise, tragedy can strike without warning. As fans mourn the loss of this beloved entertainer, they are left to wonder what could have been if only he had been able to save himself from the powerful currents.

But even in death, Warner's legacy lives on. His work continues to inspire generations of actors, musicians, and artists – a testament to his enduring impact on our shared cultural landscape.

The entertainment world is still reeling from this shocking loss, with many paying tribute to Warner's remarkable talent and generosity. As Stevie Wonder so eloquently put it, "Malcolm was more than just an actor or musician – he was a griot, a keeper of our stories and traditions."

In the words of the great man himself, "My heart is broken because not only was he a talented man growing up and doing The Cosby Show, but even more important his commitment was telling the story, the truth. And for me, in a time where we have so many in high places telling low-down lies, we need the truth."

Rest in peace, Malcolm-Jamal Warner – your music, laughter, and unwavering dedication to the truth will never be forgotten.

UPDATE: Lifeguards from Playa Grande, the beach community where Warner was swimming when he drowned, have released a statement apologizing for their role in the tragic events that unfolded. They claim that they were not present due to a lack of resources – an allegation that has sparked heated debate about the need for better emergency preparedness and response systems.

The Caribbean Guard, Costa Rica's volunteer lifeguard association, shared its condolences on Facebook, saying: "We deeply regret the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner at Playa Grande. He was swept away by a strong rip current and died by drowning... It all happened very quickly, and although there were people on the beach who entered the water to rescue him, they did not arrive in time."

Warner's final credits came in TV guest roles, including a dramatic four-episode arc last year on the network procedural "9-1-1," where he played a nurse who was a long-term survivor of a terrible fire. His legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.

PHOTO: A picture of Malcolm-Jamal Warner in his heyday as Theo Huxtable on "The Cosby Show" has gone viral, with fans and fellow celebrities alike paying tribute to the beloved actor's enduring impact on popular culture.