Samuel Monroe Jr., the American actor known for roles in several classic Black films of the 1990s, has died. He was 52 after battling meningitis.
His mother, Joyce Patton, announced his death in a Facebook post, writing, “But today God called him home. Please honor my final request to pray for the family, especially his 3 children.”
Mr. Monroe had been hospitalized since April for several issues, including MRSA pneumonia and meningitis. Beyond his breakout role, Mr. Monroe’s credits included “Tales from the Hood,” “Set It Off” and Ice Cube’s “The Players Club.” He is survived by his three children.
Monroe began his film career with a role in the 1993 cult classic Menace II Society. Throughout the decade, he went on to appear in several films that became Black cinema staples, including Tales From the Hood and Set It Off, Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, and The Players Club.
The actor had been hospitalized since April while battling meningitis and MRSA pneumonia. His condition deteriorated in recent months, requiring life support, dialysis, and multiple brain surgeries, according to Complex.
Monroe’s mother previously said his meningitis went undiagnosed for months before affecting his brain and spine. His family also said he experienced seizures and other complications during his hospitalization.
Two days before Monroe’s death was announced, Patton filed a petition seeking a conservatorship over him while he remained hospitalized, according to court documents obtained by TMZ. Monroe’s wife, Shawna Stewart, opposed the petition and said he had chosen her to manage his medical and financial affairs.
Beyond his work in 1990s Black cinema, Monroe continued acting into the 2000s and 2010s, appearing in beloved TV shows like Moesha and The Jamie Foxx Show.