When The Cosby Show premiered in 1984, it became an instant cultural phenomenon, offering a refreshing portrayal of a successful Black family. Decades later, while the show’s legacy has been tainted by Bill Cosby’s criminal convictions, the child actors who grew up on the series have continued to forge their own paths. Here’s a look at what happened to the young Huxtables after the show wrapped in 1992.
Sabrina Le Beauf (Sondra Huxtable)
Sondra, the eldest Huxtable child, was portrayed by Sabrina Le Beauf, who had a strong academic and theatrical background. Though the role gave her early fame, she felt that television didn’t allow her to fully express her talents. After the show, Le Beauf continued acting in television but later shifted to a career in interior design. She’s also passionate about theater, her true love, and still occasionally returns to the stage. Recently, Le Beauf described herself as an “Actor, Interior Decorator, Innkeeper, Former Cosby Kid, and student of life” on social media.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner (Theo Huxtable)
Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who played the lovable and often comical Theo, has enjoyed a long career in both acting and directing. He made history as the youngest member of the Director’s Guild of America at age 18. Over the years, he’s appeared in shows like Dexter, Community, and Sons of Anarchy, and starred in Malcolm & Eddie. He’s also pursued a music career, releasing albums like Hiding in Plain View in 2022. Warner has been candid about his Cosby Show days, reflecting fondly on the strong bonds he formed with the cast and crew.
Tempestt Bledsoe (Vanessa Huxtable)
Tempestt Bledsoe, who played the sharp yet fun-loving Vanessa, has remained active in Hollywood since The Cosby Show. While pursuing acting, she earned a finance degree from NYU and continued to work steadily in TV, appearing in shows like The Practice, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and The Replacements. She also hosted The Tempestt Bledsoe Show and Clean House, a reality TV series. Bledsoe has also voiced characters in animated films like ParaNorman and made appearances in series like Guys With Kids, where she brought a relatable depiction of family life.
Lisa Bonet (Denise Huxtable)
Lisa Bonet, known for playing the free-spirited, rebellious Denise, went on to have a notable but unconventional career. Her rebellious nature extended beyond the screen, as she appeared in provocative roles like in Angel Heart and eloped with musician Lenny Kravitz. Bonet’s character was spun off into A Different World, though she left after one season due to pregnancy. She later enjoyed roles in films like High Fidelity and Biker Boyz. Bonet’s personal life also garnered attention, especially her marriage to actor Jason Momoa, with whom she shares two children. They announced their separation in 2022 after 16 years together.
These actors, while shaped by their time on The Cosby Show, have each navigated their own paths—whether in acting, directing, music, or personal pursuits—continuing to make their mark in Hollywood in ways that reflect their unique talents and aspirations.
