‘Fresh Prince’ Actor Floyd Roger Myers Jr. Dies at 42

Floyd Roger Myers Jr., the actor who famously portrayed a young Will Smith in the beloved 1990s sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” has passed away at the age of 42. His untimely death, confirmed to have been caused by a heart attack, occurred early Wednesday morning, October 29, at his home in Maryland.

Myers’ passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues, highlighting his memorable contributions to television during his youth and his later dedication to community work. His mother, Renee Trice, shared the heartbreaking news, noting that Myers had contended with significant cardiac issues, having suffered three previous heart attacks in the last three years.

Early Career and Memorable Roles

Floyd Roger Myers Jr. first captured national attention as a child actor, leaving an indelible mark with his portrayal of a younger version of Will Smith. He appeared in the Season 3 episode of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” titled “Will Gets Committed,” which originally aired in 1992.

In this flashback sequence, Myers helped to provide context to the iconic character’s formative years, adding emotional depth to the popular NBC sitcom. That same year, Myers took on another significant role, playing a young Marlon Jackson in the critically acclaimed ABC miniseries “The Jacksons: An American Dream.” This two-part series chronicled the rise of the legendary Jackson 5. His final known acting credit was a guest appearance as a student in an episode of The WB drama series “Young Americans” in 2000.

Beyond the Screen: Advocacy and Family Life

While Floyd Roger Myers Jr. stepped away from the prominent acting spotlight in his adult years, he continued to make a meaningful impact through other endeavors. He was a co-founder of The Fellaship Men’s Group, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering men to “lead, heal & thrive.” The organization’s Instagram page paid tribute to Myers, affirming that his mission would continue in his honor.

Myers was a devoted father to his four children: Taelyn, Kinsley, Tyler, and Knox. His sister, Tyree Trice, launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist the family with funeral expenses and provide support for his children during this profoundly difficult time. She described her brother as “a devoted father, loving brother, and friend whose kindness, laughter, and warmth touched everyone he met.”

In addition to his advocacy work, Myers was also an entrepreneur, owning and operating Dr. Duct, a company specializing in air duct and dryer vent cleaning services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Floyd Roger Myers Jr.

When and how did Floyd Roger Myers Jr. die?

Floyd Roger Myers Jr. passed away on Wednesday, October 29, at the age of 42. His death was caused by a heart attack at his home in Maryland.

What was Floyd Roger Myers Jr. best known for?

He was best known for his role as a young Will Smith in a 1992 episode of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” He also played a young Marlon Jackson in “The Jacksons: An American Dream” miniseries.

Did he have other acting credits?

Yes, besides “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and “The Jacksons: An American Dream,” he appeared in an episode of the WB drama “Young Americans” in 2000.

What was The Fellaship Men’s Group?

The Fellaship Men’s Group was a non-profit organization co-founded by Myers, dedicated to empowering men to prioritize their mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

Conclusion

Floyd Roger Myers Jr.’s passing at such a young age is a poignant reminder of a life that, though relatively brief, was marked by both early artistic talent and a later commitment to community well-being. From his memorable performance as a young Will Smith that resonated with a generation of television viewers, to his dedication to empowering men through his non-profit work, Myers left behind a legacy that touched many. He will be remembered not only for his contributions to entertainment but also for his spirit of advocacy and his devotion as a father, brother, and friend.