Floyd Roger Myers Jr., the actor fondly remembered for portraying a young Will Smith in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, has died at the age of 42. His family announced the “unexpected passing” earlier this week, leaving fans and colleagues heartbroken over the loss of the beloved performer.
According to his mother, Renee Trice, Myers passed away early Wednesday morning at his home in Maryland after suffering a fatal heart attack. She told TMZ that her son had previously experienced three heart attacks, making this fourth episode tragically final.
Myers’ sister, Tyree Trice, set up a GoFundMe page to help the family manage funeral costs and provide for his four young children — Taelyn, Kinsley, Tyler, and Knox. “He was a devoted father, loving brother, and friend whose kindness, laughter, and warmth touched everyone he met,” she wrote, capturing the deep affection those closest to him felt.
Myers began his acting career in the early 1990s, landing a small but memorable role in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air as the child version of Will Smith’s character in the Season 3 episode “Will Gets Committed.” His performance showcased his natural charisma and earned him further opportunities, including his portrayal of young Marlon Jackson in the acclaimed ABC miniseries The Jacksons: An American Dream (1992). The project, which featured stars like Angela Bassett, Vanessa Williams, and Billy Dee Williams, introduced him to a wider audience.
After a brief return to television in 2000 with a guest role on the WB drama Young Americans, Myers shifted his focus toward personal and community work. He went on to co-found the Fellaship Men’s Group, a nonprofit promoting men’s mental health and emotional well-being.
Following news of his passing, the organization shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “RIP to our good brother @rocwonder, one of our co-founders. Gone but never forgotten. The mission will continue in your honor.”
Myers’ legacy, both on screen and through his work supporting others, continues to inspire those who knew and loved him.
