The fan community mourns the passing of Floyd Roger Myers Jr., the talented child actor who brought young Will Smith and Marlon Jackson to life on screen, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many at just 42 years old.
Fans of classic television are reflecting on the impactful, albeit brief, career of Floyd Roger Myers Jr., who passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the age of 42. Myers was best known for his pivotal roles as younger versions of iconic characters in two beloved productions of the 1990s: Will Smith in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Marlon Jackson in The Jacksons: An American Dream.
A Promising Start: Iconic Childhood Roles
Myers’ career began vibrantly in 1992 when he stepped into the shoes of a young Will Smith for a memorable season 3 episode of the smash-hit sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. This role instantly endeared him to millions, offering a glimpse into the childhood of the charismatic lead character.
Later that same year, Myers took on another significant role, portraying a young Marlon Jackson in the acclaimed TV movie The Jacksons: An American Dream. This miniseries chronicled the legendary Jackson family’s ascent to musical superstardom, and Myers’ performance was crucial in establishing the early dynamics of the famous siblings. His ability to capture the essence of these well-known figures as a child actor demonstrated remarkable talent.
He also had a role in an episode of The WB’s drama series Young Americans in 2000, which marked one of his later acting credits before he reportedly retired from acting that same year, according to IMDb.
Tragic Health Battles Lead to His Passing
The actor’s mother, Renee Trice, confirmed to TMZ that her son died of a heart attack at his Maryland home in the early hours of Wednesday, October 29, 2025. This devastating event was not his first encounter with serious cardiac issues. Trice revealed that Myers had suffered three heart attacks in the three years prior to his death, indicating a prolonged battle with heart disease.
Adding to the somber details, an article from People, originally published on AOL, highlighted his health struggles, detailing that his mother last spoke to him just hours before his passing. Furthermore, it was publicly revealed two years prior to his death that Myers had been in a coma, a testament to the severe health challenges he faced in recent years. In a heartfelt social media post at the time, he shared a photo from his hospital bed, expressing immense gratitude for being alive after fighting for his life.
A Devoted Father and Community Leader
Beyond his acting career, Floyd Roger Myers Jr. was deeply cherished in his personal life. He was a devoted father to four children: Taelyn, Kinsley, Tyler, and Knox. The profound loss felt by his family is evident in a GoFundMe campaign launched by his sister, Tyree Trice, to help cover funeral expenses.
The GoFundMe page beautifully remembers Myers as “a devoted father, loving brother, and friend whose kindness, laughter, and warmth touched everyone he met.” It emphasizes the unimaginable grief faced by his children and family. His mother also shared her sorrow in a Facebook post, writing, “This is not suppose to be so.”
Myers was also a co-founder of The Fellaship Mens Group, an organization dedicated to empowering men to “lead, heal & thrive.” This demonstrates his commitment to community and his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. The group paid tribute to him with an emotional Instagram post, featuring a photo of Myers with his children and pledging to continue their mission in his honor. His funeral is scheduled for Monday, November 3.
Legacy and Remembrance
Though his time on screen was relatively brief, Floyd Roger Myers Jr. left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him and the audiences who enjoyed his performances. His portrayals of younger versions of beloved characters ensured his place in the tapestry of classic television history. His dedication to his family and community further solidifies his legacy as a man who touched many lives. The outpouring of grief and tributes from his family, friends, and organization highlights the profound impact he had and the void his passing leaves behind.
