# Daytime Exclusive: Pamela Warner Shares Heartfelt “Goodbye” Conversation With Malcolm-Jamal Warner

In an emotional exclusive on the *Tamron Hall* show, Pamela Warner, mother of the late Malcolm-Jamal Warner, opened up for the first time since her son’s unexpected passing while vacationing in Costa Rica.

Known for his iconic role as Theo Huxtable on *The Cosby Show*, Malcolm-Jamal was also a devoted father, husband, and son. Pamela shared intimate memories of their final conversations, which she now realizes were unknowingly quiet goodbyes, and discussed the profound legacy he left behind.

Pamela’s appearance was marked by a bittersweet smile as she reflected on her son’s last Instagram post, viewed over three million times, where he spoke of finding reasons to smile despite life’s challenges. Wearing a flower in his hair for his daughter’s birthday, Malcolm’s parting message resonated deeply with fans and family alike.

Pamela revealed that their recent talks, though casual at the time, held a deeper significance. “We had goodbye conversations, and we had no idea these were goodbye conversations,” she said, expressing gratitude for the closure they provided. There were no regrets, no unsaid words—just a bond solidified over nearly 50 years of working together, as Pamela managed his career from the start.

One poignant conversation centered on safety and trust. Discussing a video about trauma, Pamela asked Malcolm if he ever felt unsafe with her as a child. His response, “Absolutely not,” and their subsequent exchange via text—where she expressed how much his trust meant—became a cherished farewell.

“That was a goodbye conversation because after that, what else is there?” she reflected. This moment underscored the safe haven she provided, a theme echoed in Malcolm’s foreword to their co-authored book, a guide for parents of child entertainers, where he praised her protective instincts.

Pamela also shared how Malcolm’s passion for acting began at age eight after she enrolled him in a children’s theater in Englewood, California. After his first production, he declared, “Ma, this is the only thing I want to do for the rest of my life.” True to his word, he pursued acting until his passing at 54, later adding music to his talents.

His daughter, too, has shown early determination as an artist, dreaming of building a museum for her work—a testament to the freedom and support Pamela instilled, encouraging children to self-determine without fear of judgment.

Despite the unbearable loss, Pamela finds solace in 54 years of memories and hugs, feeling Malcolm’s presence around her. She recounted uncanny signs, like being invited to co-host his podcast posthumously, a wish he couldn’t fulfill in life.

“I knew that was Malcolm,” she said, thanking him aloud. As she navigates his first birthday without him, Pamela is determined to carry forward his huge heart for humanity, ensuring his mission and love endure. Her story is a powerful reminder of love’s lasting impact, even in the face of profound grief.