Those of us who grew up watching “The Cosby Show” as teens in the 1980s were extremely saddened to learn of Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s tragic drowning in Costa Rica while on vacation with his family.

For many Black queer men, Malcolm-Jamal Warner wasn’t just a familiar face on TV — he was a presence, a rhythm, and a role model. He held space in our lives that felt safe, like a favorite cousin you ...