Though ‘The Cosby Show’ aired nearly four decades ago, these actors’ performances continue to resonate. They helped redefine Black representation on network TV—cultivating a legacy of integrity, talent, and familial love. Their contributions endure in reruns, retrospectives, and the many lives they touched.

Let us honor their memory by revisiting their remarkable work and appreciating the humanity they brought to a show that shaped a generation.

Earle Hyman (1926–2017) – Russell “Grandpa” Huxtable

Earle Hyman brought gravitas and warmth to the role of Russell Huxtable, father of Cliff. A distinguished stage actor, Hyman began acting at 17 and broke new ground as one of the first Black actors to play major Shakespearean roles like Hamlet, Lear, Macbeth, and Othello.

He earned a Tony nomination (1980) and an Emmy nod (1986) for his work on The Cosby Show. His work spanned Broadway, regional theaters, and television but remains best remembered for his portrayal of the birdwatching, wise grandfather figure.

He also voiced Panthro in ThunderCats. He passed away at 91 in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of theatrical excellence and screen charisma.

Ethel Ayler (1930–2018) – Carrie Hanks

As Clair Huxtable’s mother, Carrie Hanks, Ethel Ayler infused the character with dignified wit and quiet strength.

Ayler began her performing career in the late 1950s and quickly moved from Off-Broadway to Broadway, understudying Lena Horne in Jamaica and later starring in Fences.

A founding member of the Negro Ensemble Company, she appeared alongside luminaries like Maya Angelou and James Earl Jones.

Her film work included The Bodyguard, To Sleep with Anger, and Eve’s Bayou. Ayler brought matriarchal authority and warmth to the Huxtable clan, grounding the sitcom in real familial tenderness. She passed in 2018, age 88.

Roscoe Lee Browne (1922–2007) – Dr. Barnabas Foster

Roscoe Lee Browne guest-starred as the elegant and intelligent Dr. Barnabas Foster, a family friend and mentor figure.

An award-winning actor with a resonant voice and a career in stage, film, and television, he won an Emmy for his guest role and was celebrated for his distinguished presence and articulate performances.

Michelle Thomas (1968–1998) – Justine Phillips

Michelle Thomas portrayed Justine, Theo Huxtable’s compassionate and intelligent girlfriend. A rising star, she later joined Family Matters and The Young and the Restless.

Tragically, she was diagnosed in 1997 with a rare desmoplastic small‑round‑cell tumor.

She battled illness courageously, undergoing surgery and treatment, but passed away at just 30 in December 1998. Her passing devastated fans and co-stars, notably Malcolm-Jamal Warner.

Merlin Santana (1976–2002) – Stanley

Merlin Santana made a memorable impression as Rudy Huxtable’s boyfriend, Stanley, bringing youthful charm and charisma.

His promising acting career tragically ended in 2002 when he was fatally shot at age 26, a loss mourned by fans and colleagues.

Everett Wilson (1987–2005) – Baby Nelson Tibideaux

Everett Wilson was one of the twins who portrayed baby Nelson Tibideaux in the early seasons. Raised in the public eye, he tragically died in a car accident at just 17.

His death was a heartbreaking reminder of the fleeting nature of life behind the laughs.

Clarice Taylor (1917–2011) – Anna Huxtable

Clarice Taylor, as Anna Huxtable, was the loving matriarch at the heart of the Huxtable family. Her storied career included roles in The Wiz, Purlie, and an Obie-winning one-woman show.

She portrayed Cliff Huxtable’s mother with grace and comedic timing.

Taylor remained active in theater and television well into her later years, winning an Obie in 1987, before passing away at age 93 from congestive heart failure.

Joe Williams (1918–1999) – Al Hanks

Joe Williams, a jazz legend known for his rich baritone, appeared as Al Hanks, Clair’s warm-hearted father.

Best remembered as a prominent vocalist with Count Basie, he transitioned into acting and brought cozy familial charm to his role on the show. He died in 1999 from respiratory complications.

William Thomas Jr. (1947–2020) – Davis Bricky

William Thomas Jr. played Davis Bricky, Vanessa Huxtable’s boyfriend. Though less prominent, his character added depth to the later seasons.

Thomas continued acting into adulthood and passed away in 2020 at the age of 73.