Floyd Roger Myers Jr., the child actor who portrayed a young Will Smith in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” died from a heart attack at his Maryland home in the early morning hours of Wednesday, October 29, 2025. He was 42 years old.
Myers’ mother, Renee Trice, confirmed to TMZ that her son passed away following a series of cardiac problems. She revealed he had suffered three previous heart attacks over the past three years and said she had spoken with him just the night before his death.
The actor’s sister, Tyree Trice, established a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral expenses and support Myers’ four children: Taelyn, Kinsley, Tyler and Knox. In her announcement, she wrote, “He was a devoted father, loving brother, and friend whose kindness, laughter, and warmth touched everyone he met.”
Myers began his entertainment career at age 9 when he appeared in the September 1992 Season 3 episode of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” titled “Will Gets Committed.” The episode featured flashback sequences set in the 1970s, with Myers portraying Smith’s character as a child. His performance captured the essence of the show’s charismatic lead, marking his introduction to television audiences nationwide.
That same year, Myers secured another prominent role playing a young Marlon Jackson in both episodes of the ABC miniseries “The Jacksons: An American Dream.” The production chronicled the remarkable rise of the Jackson 5, offering viewers an intimate look at one of music’s most iconic families. Myers’ portrayal contributed to a project that traced the group’s journey from humble beginnings to international stardom.
His final acting credit came in 2000 when he appeared as a student in one episode of the WB drama series “Young Americans.” After stepping away from Hollywood, Myers redirected his energy toward community service and mental health advocacy.
Myers co-founded the nonprofit Fellaship Men’s Group, an organization dedicated to creating safe spaces for men to address emotional and mental health challenges. The group offers workshops, wellness programs and service opportunities designed to help men reconnect with their sense of purpose and build supportive communities.
Following news of his death, the Fellaship Men’s Group posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram honoring their co-founder. The organization wrote: “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 men’s meeting will be one for the books like we talked about! Love you bro, rest easy, big bro will take it from here.”
The tribute reflected the deep impact Myers had on those who worked alongside him in creating resources for men struggling with mental health issues. His commitment to the organization demonstrated his dedication to helping others navigate emotional challenges and find community support.
Beyond his television appearances, Myers left a lasting impression on family members and friends who remembered him as a devoted father committed to raising his four children. His sister emphasized his warm personality and the positive influence he had on everyone in his life, from close family members to acquaintances who benefited from his kindness.
His mother indicated that despite his history of cardiac problems, his death came as a shock to the family. The string of heart attacks over recent years had created concern among loved ones, but his sudden passing still devastated those closest to him.
The GoFundMe campaign launched by his sister aims to alleviate financial burdens associated with funeral arrangements while establishing support for his children’s future needs. The page has drawn attention from fans who remembered Myers’ brief but memorable contributions to television during the early 1990s.
“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” remains one of the most beloved sitcoms in television history, launching Smith’s acting career and creating opportunities for numerous young performers like Myers. The show’s cultural impact extended beyond entertainment, addressing social issues while maintaining its comedic appeal throughout its six-season run from 1990 to 1996.
Myers’ work on the series, though limited to a single episode, connected him to a television legacy that continues to resonate with audiences decades after the show’s conclusion. His portrayal helped bring depth to flashback sequences that enriched the show’s storytelling and provided context for Smith’s character development.
His transition from child actor to community advocate illustrated a commitment to making meaningful contributions beyond the entertainment industry. The Fellaship Men’s Group stands as a testament to his dedication to addressing mental health stigma and creating resources for men seeking support.