Tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner: "Malcolm Left The Mic On - Part 1"

Episode Release Date: August 8, 2025
Podcast: Not All Hood (NAH) with Malcolm-Jamal Warner & Candace Kelley
Hosts: Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Candace Kelley, Lane Fox, Troy Harris Jr.

Introduction to the Tribute

The "Not All Hood" podcast dedicates its eighth episode as a heartfelt tribute to the late Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Hosted by Candace Kelley alongside Lane Fox and Troy Harris Jr., the episode serves as a celebration of Malcolm's enduring legacy and his profound impact on Black representation in media.

Honoring Malcolm's Legacy

Kimberly Latrice Jones opens the tribute by emphasizing Malcolm's lasting influence:

"Malcolm really left the mic on because his message, the person who he was, it lives on. It speaks. He reshaped the way that young black men were seen on tv."
[01:32]

She highlights Malcolm's dedication to redefining Black masculinity and his commitment to creating empowering narratives:

"Malcolm's commitment to fatherhood, I think, was something... he wanted to give his daughter a father that was so excellent and so pristine and so magnificent that she would find no fault in him."
[21:27]

Personal Reflections and Memories

Troy Harris Jr. shares personal anecdotes showcasing Malcolm's charisma and humility:

"He walked into the dance floor with his arms up like this, like, I am here. And like every girl turned to start being dancing with him."
[11:00]

Troy recounts Malcolm's approach to acting and his ability to maintain authenticity:

"Malcolm said, going for the parts that got ratings would never replace his sense of self."
[12:00]

Lane Fox adds insights into Malcolm's intentionality in shaping positive representations:

"Malcolm believed that television should be uplifting to black people. That was a big source of the conflict between him and Eddie."
[14:54]

Guest Speakers Share Insights

Dr. Daniel Black, Malcolm's mentor, provides a profound testimonial about Malcolm's character and professional integrity:

"Malcolm was sophisticated, regal, intelligent, multifaceted, honest, disciplined and authentic... His legacy is a standard of excellence that is both inspiring and impactful."
[18:18]

He further elaborates on Malcolm's dedication to cultural representation:

"He never took roles that misappropriated the culture. He would never play a drug dealer or anything that misrepresented a black male or the culture at large."
[22:00]

Jessica Meisel, a colleague from "The Resident," reflects on Malcolm's warmth and work ethic:

"He was the goofiest... his laugh was just one of my favorite sounds in the whole world."
[31:36]

Jessica shares stories that illustrate Malcolm's continuous pursuit of personal growth, such as learning to play the trumpet despite initial challenges:

"He really improved, though. That's a testament to his work ethic and his relentless drive."
[32:30]

Community Reactions and Stories

Listeners and community members are encouraged to share their memories and thoughts, fostering a collective healing space. Candace Kelley emphasizes the importance of gathering and supporting one another:

"In moments like this, we as African people, the strength of who we are is in each other."
[38:32]

Dr. Daniel Black shares a poignant account of Malcolm's genuine concern for others, highlighting his unwavering friendship:

"His last statement was, 'because I need.' He was a real friend."
[65:01]

Malcolm's Philosophies and Daily Practices

Throughout the tribute, Malcolm's philosophies are highlighted, particularly his practice of "gratitude walks." Kimberly Latrice Jones notes:

"He approached each day with gratitude... 'there's something good.'"
[35:54]

These walks exemplify Malcolm's commitment to positivity and mindfulness, influencing those around him to adopt similar practices.

Legacy and Future of the Podcast

As the hosts grapple with Malcolm's passing, they discuss the future of the "Not All Hood" podcast. Kimberly Latrice Jones affirms the podcast's continuation as part of Malcolm's legacy:

"We wanted to live each person's experience. We wanted to hear everyone's voice."
[52:02]

Lane Fox reflects on maintaining the narrative Malcolm envisioned, emphasizing storytelling's power to humanize and connect:

"When we create these narratives about black people, we allow for greater humanity."
[53:10]

Conclusion

The tribute episode of "Not All Hood" serves as a comprehensive homage to Malcolm-Jamal Warner's life, character, and enduring influence. Through heartfelt testimonies and shared memories, the podcast honors Malcolm's mission to uplift and accurately represent Black experiences, ensuring his voice and vision continue to inspire future generations.

Notable Quotes:

• Kimberly Latrice Jones:
  "Malcolm really left the mic on because his message, the person who he was, it lives on. It speaks. He reshaped the way that young black men were seen on tv."
  [01:32]

• Dr. Daniel Black:
  "Malcolm was sophisticated, regal, intelligent, multifaceted, honest, disciplined and authentic... His legacy is a standard of excellence that is both inspiring and impactful."
  [18:18]

• Jesscia Meisel:
  "He was the goofiest... his laugh was just one of my favorite sounds in the whole world."
  [31:36]

This tribute not only celebrates Malcolm-Jamal Warner's achievements but also underscores the profound personal connections and communal impact he fostered throughout his career and life.