Gone too soon.

Former child actor Floyd Roger Myers Jr., known for his memorable performances as young Will Smith in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and as young Marlon Jackson in The Jacksons: An American Dream, has sadly joined the ancestors. Myers passed away from a heart attack at the age of 42, according to reports from Essence and BET News.

As a child actor in the 1990s, Myers was celebrated for his natural charisma and the joyful spark he brought to every role. Whether portraying a young version of Will Smith’s beloved sitcom character or capturing the early spirit of a Jackson 5 legend, he stood out for his warmth and authenticity. “Even then, you could tell he had something special — a mix of confidence and heart that lit up every scene,” a former Fresh Prince crew member shared (People).

But Myers’ legacy didn’t stop with Hollywood. As an adult, he turned his focus toward uplifting others and giving back. He co-founded The Fellaship Men’s Group, an organization devoted to fostering brotherhood, healing, and mental wellness among Black men. Through the group, Myers encouraged open conversations about emotional health and community support — subjects he believed were essential to generational healing (The Washington Post).

He was also a small-business owner, running Dr. Duct, a local air-duct cleaning service that served his Maryland community with care and professionalism. Friends say that his entrepreneurial spirit reflected the same drive that once carried him onto TV screens. “Roger was always building — whether it was a business, a bond, or someone’s confidence,” one longtime friend recalled (Essence).

Those who grew up with Myers in Prince George’s County, Maryland, remember him not only as a performer but as a light — a person who made everyone feel seen, valued, and uplifted. “It wasn’t just his smile, it was his energy,” a family member said. “He walked into a room and made you believe in yourself.”

Across social media, tributes have poured in from colleagues and fans alike, honoring Myers’ legacy as both an artist and a mentor. Many noted that his impact extended far beyond the screen — into the hearts of the people he inspired through his compassion, humor, and unwavering positivity.

While his passing leaves an unfillable void, his life stands as a testament to purpose, resilience, and faith. His story reminds us that true success is not only in the spotlight, but in how we pour love and meaning back into our communities.

We are holding his loved ones — especially his children — close in thought and prayer. May they find comfort in knowing that Floyd Roger Myers Jr. lived a life that mattered deeply, and that his light will continue to guide those he touched.

Rest well, Roger 🕊️
Your legacy of love, laughter, and leadership lives on.