Floyd Roger Myers Jr., 'Fresh Prince' & 'Jacksons' Child Actor, Dies at 42

We're sad to report the passing of Floyd Roger Myers Jr., the talented child actor many will remember from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and The Jacksons: An American Dream. He passed away at the age of 42, leaving behind a legacy that stretched far beyond the screen.

TL;DR: The Latest on Floyd Roger Myers Jr.'s Passing

Floyd Roger Myers Jr., known for his roles as young Will Smith and Marlon Jackson, passed away at 42 years old.
He died from a heart attack at his Maryland home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, after a history of heart issues.
Beyond acting, Myers was a devoted father of four, a successful entrepreneur, and co-founded the Fellaship Men's Group, a non-profit focused on men's mental and emotional health.

A Blast from the Past: Unforgettable Child Star Moments on Screen

Floyd Roger Myers Jr. charmed audiences with his natural talent from a young age. His mother, Renee Trice, recognized that spark early on, landing him his first commercial when he was just two years old. It seems he was destined for the screen!

Many of us got to know Myers through his iconic childhood roles in two major projects from 1992. First, he stepped into some big shoes as a younger version of Will Smith in a memorable Season 3 episode of the hit sitcom, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, titled "Will Gets Committed." Imagine being a kid and getting to play a mini-Will Smith! That episode resonated with many, showcasing the deep roots of Will's character. Fans adored his brief but impactful appearance, perfectly capturing the essence of the beloved character.

Later that same year, Myers took on another significant role, portraying Marlon Jackson at ages 7 to 9 in the Emmy-winning miniseries, The Jacksons: An American Dream. This five-hour ABC event delved into the incredible journey of the Jackson family, and Myers's portrayal of young Marlon was a highlight. He even got to rub shoulders with a star-studded cast including Angela Bassett as Katherine Jackson, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as Joe Jackson, and Billy Dee Williams. His manager, Desi Hill, affectionately called him "Lil Roger" and likened meeting Myers to when Berry Gordy first saw Michael Jackson, praising him as "one of the most undeniable young talents one could ever lay eyes on at first sight."

While his screen career was brief, concluding with an appearance as a student in the 2000 WB series Young Americans, the impact of his early work left a lasting impression on a generation of viewers. He may have stepped away from the bright lights of Hollywood, but his charisma and talent were undeniable.

Beyond the Camera's Glimmer: A Life Dedicated to Community and Entrepreneurship

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After his child acting days, Floyd Roger Myers Jr. chose a path that, according to family members, allowed him to live a more "normal life." He wasn't chasing fame; instead, he built a life rooted in education, entrepreneurship, and community service. Myers pursued business studies at Clark Atlanta University, laying the groundwork for his ventures outside of entertainment.

Within the last decade, he launched his own successful air duct cleaning business, Dr. Duct. This entrepreneurial spirit showcased a different side of his drive and ambition. But perhaps even more impactful was his dedication to supporting others. Myers co-founded the Fellaship Men's Group, a non-profit organization based in Maryland. This group became a cornerstone of his adult life, offering wellness programs, healing circles, workshops, and service opportunities aimed at helping men reconnect with their purpose and redefine strength.

The Fellaship Men's Group's mission was deeply personal to Myers, focusing on men's mental and emotional health—creating safe spaces for crucial conversations. His commitment to this cause highlights a profound desire to give back and foster brotherhood, an endeavor that truly resonated with those around him. It’s clear that even after leaving the entertainment industry, Myers continued to shine, channeling his energy into empowering and uplifting his community.

"RIP to our good brother @rocwonder one of our co founders. Gone but never will be forgotten. The mission will continue in your honor. Next mens meeting will be one for the books like we talked about! Love you bro, rest easy, big bro will take it from here."

— The Fellaship Men's Group on Instagram

Heartfelt Tributes and a Legacy of Kindness, Laughter, and Warmth

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The news of Floyd Roger Myers Jr.'s passing has brought an outpouring of love and remembrance from his family, friends, and the community he touched. His mother, Renee Trice, confirmed his death after he suffered a heart attack at his Upper Marlboro home. This was a particularly devastating blow, as it was his fourth heart attack in the last three years, stemming from a heart condition he had only recently become aware of.

His younger sister, Tyree Trice, shared a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses and support his four children: Taelyn, Kinsley, Tyler, and Knox. On the page, she beautifully captured his essence: "He was a devoted father, loving brother, and friend whose kindness, laughter, and warmth touched everyone he met." She fondly recalled his humor, even joking that as a newborn, he remarked she looked like E.T., a memory that still makes her laugh.

Loved ones consistently describe Myers as having a bright personality, a quick wit, and a contagious sense of humor. His Maryland roots in Laurel and Suitland High School meant he always remained connected to his hometown, with friends and family from Prince George's County echoing stories of his infectious smile and ability to make people feel seen. He was known for his daily three-hour conversations with his mother, and for text messages expressing gratitude and empathy, showing the deep bond they shared and how he truly embodied the lessons she taught him.

The Fellaship Men's Group, a testament to his adult life's passion, shared a poignant tribute on Instagram, vowing to continue their mission in his honor. It’s clear that Myers's impact stretched far beyond his early acting fame; he was a pillar of support and inspiration in his personal life and community endeavors.

A balloon release was held on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at the Crafty Crab in District Heights, allowing loved ones to gather and remember the man who brought so much light into their lives.

A Sobering Call to Action: Understanding Heart Health in Younger Adults

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Floyd Roger Myers Jr.'s passing at such a young age serves as a heartbreaking reminder of a growing concern: the increasing prevalence of heart disease among younger adults. While we often associate heart issues with older age, the statistics tell a different, more alarming story. According to OU Health, there's been roughly a 30% increase in heart disease-related hospitalizations for adults under 45 in recent years.

This isn't just a statistical blip; it reflects a broader trend where conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even heart attacks are appearing much earlier than anticipated—sometimes in people's 20s or 30s. Myers's own struggle, enduring multiple heart attacks before his passing and only recently becoming aware of his condition, underscores how quickly these issues can escalate if risk factors are ignored.

So, what can young adults do to protect their hearts? It starts with proactive steps:

Get Regular Check-ups: Don't skip your annual physical! Ask your doctor about basic cardiovascular screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Many young adults don't check these vital signs until it's too late.
Know Your Family History: Heart disease can run in families. Share your family's health history with your doctor so they can assess your personal risk more accurately.
Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle:
- Move More: Even short walks count! Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine.
- Eat Whole Foods: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains over heavily processed options.
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep can impact heart health.
- Manage Stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, whether it's through exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
Be Aware of Warning Signs: Don't dismiss symptoms like unexplained fatigue, shortness of breath during regular activity, heart palpitations, or chest pressure, even if you feel "too young" for heart problems. Seek medical attention if you experience these.

Myers's mother expressed frustration, having tried to convince him to get a defibrillator, highlighting the challenge of managing such a condition. While his passing is a tragedy, it serves as a powerful call for all young adults to take their heart health seriously. His story, and the mission of the Fellaship Men's Group, emphasize the importance of self-care, open conversations about health, and community support. It’s a stark reminder that staying informed and proactive is key to a long and healthy life.

Final Thoughts on a Life Well-Lived and Remembered

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Floyd Roger Myers Jr. may have left us too soon, but his memory will undoubtedly live on through his brief but shining moments on screen, the impactful community work he championed, and the loving family he cherished. From making us smile as a young Will Smith to fostering a space for men's mental health, he dedicated his life to connection and purpose. His story is a poignant reminder to embrace every moment and prioritize our well-being. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, and hope his legacy inspires a greater awareness of heart health in younger generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Floyd Roger Myers Jr.

When did Floyd Roger Myers Jr. pass away?

Floyd Roger Myers Jr. passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from a heart attack at his home in Maryland. Some earlier reports may have indicated October 22, but the most consistent recent reporting points to October 29.

What were Floyd Roger Myers Jr.'s most famous acting roles?

He was best known for playing a younger version of Will Smith in a 1992 episode of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and portraying young Marlon Jackson in the 1992 miniseries The Jacksons: An American Dream.

What was the Fellaship Men's Group that Floyd Roger Myers Jr. co-founded?

The Fellaship Men's Group is a non-profit organization co-founded by Myers in Maryland. It focuses on men's mental and emotional health, offering wellness programs, healing circles, workshops, and service opportunities to help men reconnect with their purpose.

Did Floyd Roger Myers Jr. have a family?

Yes, Floyd Roger Myers Jr. was a devoted father to four children: Taelyn, Kinsley, Tyler, and Knox. He is also survived by his mother, Renee Trice, and his sister, Tyree Trice, along with other family members.