The Huxtable family became an iconic symbol of success and love, but what happened to the cast of The Cosby Show after the show ended in 1992? While Bill Cosby and Phylicia Rashad continued to enjoy their careers, many of the child stars of the show faced challenges of their own.
The Rise of the Huxtable Children
For the cast members who played the Huxtable children, fame came early. Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who played the eldest son Theo, quickly became a fan favorite. After The Cosby Show, Warner pursued a successful career in both television and music. He starred in the sitcom Malcolm & Eddie, alongside Eddie Griffin, and later went on to direct and produce various projects. His post-Huxtable career highlights his versatility, moving between acting, directing, and music.
Tempestt Bledsoe, who played Vanessa Huxtable, also found success after the show. She appeared in the sitcom The New Show, as well as reality television programs and voice acting roles. Her character on The Cosby Show was always a standout for her blend of innocence and sass, and Bledsoe continued to bring her unique charm to other projects after the series concluded.
Keshia Knight Pulliam, who portrayed Rudy Huxtable, became one of the most recognizable child stars of the era. After The Cosby Show, Pulliam acted in several television films and became a media personality. She appeared on The Celebrity Apprentice and remains active in various charitable organizations. Pulliam’s career has spanned over two decades, showcasing her continued relevance in the entertainment industry.
Lisa Bonet: The Independent Spirit
Lisa Bonet, who played Denise Huxtable, the Huxtable daughter with a free-spirited personality, had a slightly more tumultuous post-Cosby Show career. She left the series early to pursue other opportunities, including starring in the spin-off show A Different World. Bonet’s career took several turns, including marrying actor Lenny Kravitz and later marrying actor Jason Momoa. Her personal life often attracted media attention, but she maintained her individuality and unique path in Hollywood.
Geoffrey Owens: The Quiet Success Story
Geoffrey Owens, who portrayed Elvin Tibideaux, Vanessa’s husband, may not have been the most high-profile cast member, but his post-Cosby Show career deserves recognition. Owens continued to act in theater and television, with notable roles in shows like The Blacklist and Law & Order: SVU. However, his career faced a setback when paparazzi photos surfaced of him working at a grocery store in 2018, sparking public ridicule. Rather than allowing this to define him, Owens used the incident as a platform to advocate for respect and dignity for all working actors, regardless of their job status.
The End of an Era
The cast of The Cosby Show has had diverse and often unexpected careers after their time on the iconic sitcom. Some of them enjoyed continued success in Hollywood, while others faced struggles or made unconventional choices. Yet each of them has contributed to the lasting legacy of the show in their own way.
