Anthony Mackie has shared heartfelt memories of his late friend Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who passed away on July 20. Mackie expressed his admiration for Warner’s character and the meaningful conversations they shared, highlighting the lasting impact Warner had on those close to him. Their friendship, forged beyond the spotlight, reveals the depth of respect Mackie had for the beloved actor.
Mackie and Stephanie Beatriz, his co-star from Twisted Metal, spoke with PEOPLE recently, where Mackie reflected on his connection with Warner. He said,
“I’m proud to say Malcolm-Jamal Warner was a friend of mine. He’s somebody that I knew and spent time with, and just was such a beautiful human being.”
Mackie recalled the value of the time spent together, noting,
“And every time I was around him, I was able to take full advantage of those conversations and that time. That, for me, is the most important thing.”
Anthony Mackie’s admiration for Warner began long before they met, as he first respected Warner through his role on The Cosby Show. Once their paths crossed, they nurtured a close friendship marked by mutual appreciation that transcended their careers.
Private Burial Marks Final Farewell for Malcolm-Jamal Warner
Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s death was a shock to fans and colleagues alike. The actor passed away during a family vacation due to an accidental drowning. Following his passing, numerous tributes appeared from those who knew him personally and professionally, emphasizing his warm personality and remarkable presence.
His family organized a private burial in Los Angeles, attended by close relatives and some former cast members of The Cosby Show. Felicia Rashad, Warner’s on-screen mother and continuing friend, was notably present, underscoring the deep bonds formed on and off the set.
Anthony Mackie Reflects on Mentor Andre Braugher’s Influence
In the same interview with PEOPLE, Anthony Mackie also honored another significant figure in his life: Andre Braugher, who passed away in December 2023 from lung cancer. Braugher served as a mentor to Mackie during his early days in New York theater, leaving a profound impact on his career and mindset.
Mackie shared,
“Being in New York and that new kid on the theater scene. To have those lessons and those moments and have that communicated [by] such — at that time for me — such an icon in the business.”
He emphasized the importance of authenticity in those mentoring relationships, advising,
“I always tell people just take full advantage of those moments [with mentors] and truly be yourself so that that person can see, react, and engage with who you are and not some fictitious idea of who you think they want you to be.”
Stephanie Beatriz, who worked with Braugher on Brooklyn 99, reflected on coping with the loss of loved ones, stating,
“Unfortunately, we all go through grief in our lives. And all you really have are those memories.”
She added,
“So Anthony’s absolutely right. Coming to people in your life with the truest, most honest self as much as you can at all times is gonna feed the memories when you lose them. And hopefully feed their memories when someday they might lose you.”
The Enduring Impact of Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s Legacy
The loss of Malcolm-Jamal Warner has resonated deeply within the entertainment community, as shown through the stories shared by Anthony Mackie and others who knew him well. Their reflections not only honor Warner’s life but also highlight the importance of genuine connections and mentorship. As fans and colleagues remember him, the significance of preserving these authentic relationships becomes clear, serving as an inspiration for those who continue his legacy.
