When “The Cosby Show” debuted on NBC in 1984, it quickly became one of the most iconic sitcoms in television history. The show, which centered around the Huxtable family, brought a fresh, positive portrayal of an African-American family in a middle-class setting, starring Bill Cosby as Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad as his wife, Clair. But, just as memorable were the young Huxtable children, who grew up on screen, winning over viewers with their charm and humor. But what happened to them after the show ended in 1992? Let’s dive into the lives of the “Cosby Show” kids, who captured the hearts of millions.
1. Lisa Bonet (Denise Huxtable)
Lisa Bonet, who portrayed the free-spirited, fashion-forward Denise, was already an established actress by the time “The Cosby Show” hit TV screens. After leaving the show in 1991, she starred in her own spin-off, A Different World, which furthered her career. Bonet’s personal life has often been in the public eye, especially due to her marriage to rock star Lenny Kravitz and later, her relationship with actor Jason Momoa. Despite a few controversies and career ups and downs, Bonet has continued to act in films, most notably in High Fidelity and Angel Heart. Today, Bonet remains a beloved figure, celebrated for her eclectic style and individuality.
2. Malcolm-Jamal Warner (Theo Huxtable)
Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who played the Huxtables’ only son, Theo, has enjoyed a varied and successful career post-“Cosby Show.” After his time as Theo, Warner became known for his roles in dramas such as The Brothers, Jeremiah and Sons of Anarchy. He also had a successful music career as a jazz bassist. Additionally, Warner has used his platform to speak about social issues, especially those affecting African-American communities. Recently, he starred in the drama The Resident, a medical series, proving his enduring popularity as an actor.
3. Keshia Knight Pulliam (Rudy Huxtable)
Keshia Knight Pulliam, who won audiences over with her portrayal of the adorable youngest Huxtable child, Rudy, went on to become a household name. After “The Cosby Show,” Pulliam pursued an acting career, appearing in films and television series. She starred in the reality TV series The Cosby Show Kids and made waves with her appearance on The Celebrity Apprentice. Pulliam’s personal life, including her marriage to former NFL player Ed Hartwell, has also garnered media attention. However, she has remained active in philanthropy, advocating for children’s education, and is a proud advocate for women of color in the entertainment industry.
4. Tempestt Bledsoe (Vanessa Huxtable)
Tempestt Bledsoe, who portrayed the stylish and often rebellious Vanessa, continues to shine in Hollywood. After “The Cosby Show,” Bledsoe took on several roles in both film and television, including hosting The Tempestt Bledsoe Show in 1995. More recently, she made appearances in sitcoms such as The Practice and The New Normal. Despite taking a step back from acting for some years, Bledsoe has used her platform to be a public speaker and advocate for youth causes.
5. Raven-Symoné (Olivia Kendall)
Raven-Symoné’s character, Olivia, the youngest addition to the Huxtable family, was introduced later in the show’s run but quickly became a fan favorite. After The Cosby Show, Raven-Symoné went on to achieve superstardom, particularly with her Disney Channel series That’s So Raven. She has also had a successful career as a singer and appeared on The View. Her journey from child star to media mogul has made her an influential voice in the entertainment industry, where she has used her platform to speak on important topics such as LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality.
6. The Cast’s Impact Today
Even after all these years, the cast of The Cosby Show remains an integral part of pop culture, reminding audiences of a time when family sitcoms carried messages of love, respect, and ambition. However, many of the cast members have also dealt with the complicated legacy of Bill Cosby himself, whose later conviction for sexual assault created a cloud over the show’s once-unblemished reputation.
Despite the controversies surrounding Cosby, the kids of the Huxtable family continue to have diverse and impactful careers in entertainment and activism. Their roles on The Cosby Show gave them a platform, and they have used it to grow, evolve, and inspire generations.
In Conclusion
From Lisa Bonet’s boundary-pushing roles to Keshia Knight Pulliam’s entrepreneurial ventures, the children of The Cosby Show have lived rich, multi-faceted lives. While some paths have been marked by both triumphs and challenges, the legacy of the show and its characters remains alive in the hearts of fans. So, what happened to the “Cosby Show” kids? They grew up, and they continue to shine in their own unique ways.
