When The Cosby Show premiered in 1984, it broke barriers, redefined American television, and became one of the most iconic sitcoms of the 20th century. Centered around the Huxtable family, the show not only delivered laughs but also offered positive representation of an upper-middle-class African-American family. But what happened to its beloved cast members after the series ended in 1992?
Bill Cosby (Cliff Huxtable)
Then: Bill Cosby, already a well-known comedian, became America’s “TV dad” through his role as Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable. He also co-created the show and played a major role behind the scenes.
Now: Cosby’s legacy has been deeply tarnished by numerous allegations of sexual assault, culminating in a 2018 conviction that was overturned in 2021. While he was once a symbol of wholesome entertainment, he is now largely removed from public life.
Phylicia Rashad (Clair Huxtable)
Then: As the elegant and intelligent attorney Clair Huxtable, Rashad became a role model for women and was widely praised for her performance.
Now: Rashad has continued her acting career on stage and screen, earning a Tony Award and taking on leadership roles in academia. In 2021, she was appointed Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University.
Lisa Bonet (Denise Huxtable)
Then: Bonet’s free-spirited character, Denise, became a fan favorite, even earning a spinoff, A Different World.
Now: Bonet went on to act in films such as Angel Heart and High Fidelity. She married and later separated from actor Jason Momoa. Known for her low-profile lifestyle, she remains admired for her bohemian aesthetic and independence.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner (Theo Huxtable)
Then: Playing the only Huxtable son, Warner became a teen heartthrob and earned critical praise for portraying a character who overcame learning disabilities.
Now: Warner has had a steady career in television (The Resident, Reed Between the Lines) and music, even winning a Grammy. He has also taken roles behind the camera as a director and producer.
Tempestt Bledsoe (Vanessa Huxtable)
Then: Bledsoe portrayed the brainy and often rebellious fourth Huxtable child.
Now: Though she stepped back from acting for a time, Bledsoe has reappeared in shows like Guys with Kids and in voice roles. She has also appeared on talk shows and reality TV.
Keshia Knight Pulliam (Rudy Huxtable)
Then: As the adorable youngest Huxtable child, Pulliam won hearts and became one of the youngest Emmy nominees ever.
Now: Pulliam continues to act and has appeared in Tyler Perry productions and reality television. She is also an entrepreneur and advocate for women and children’s rights.
Sabrina Le Beauf (Sondra Huxtable)
Then: Le Beauf joined the cast as the eldest Huxtable child, Sondra.
Now: After the show, she focused more on theater and design, working with the Shakespeare Theatre Company and pursuing an interest in interior design.
