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Samuel Monroe Jr., known for his show stealing appearances in several classic Black cinema films in the 90s, is fighting for his life. The actor with credits in Menace II Society, Tales From The Hood, Set It Off, and other great films, is in critical condition.
What Happened To Samuel Monroe Jr.
According to his mother’s Facebook post, Monroe needs all the prayers possible.
“God don’t make no mistakes but he is gracious and I am humbly asking for his mercy and grace for Sam,” she posted. “I love you son. To the moon and back 100 times.”
Monroe has been battling meningitis for over a year. His wife, Shawna Stewart explained how he contracted the disease in a statement to Complex.
“Around 18 months ago, Samuel was in Las Vegas filming, and unfortunately, that is where he contracted meningitis,” Stewart told Complex. “He went to several different hospitals, where his condition was repeatedly misdiagnosed and because of this negligence, the meningitis went untreated for eight months.”
Stewart continues, saying by the time it was properly diagnosed that the infection had spread to his brain.
The statement concludes with Monroe Jr.’s family asking everyone to “keep him in their prayers.”
"Menace II Society" actor Samuel Monroe Jr. is currently on life support, according to his mother
— Kollege Kidd (@KollegeKidd) April 26, 2026
Other Credits: "Tales From The Hood," "Don't Be A Menace," "Set It Off," "The Players Club" pic.twitter.com/oGrfDSpLym
What Are Samuel Monroe Jr.’s Iconic Performances?
Known as a staple character actor in several classic Black films, Monroe has a career that’s spanned two decades.
He plays Bulldog, one of three men who break into the funeral home, in Tales From The Hood.
He played the heinous, Junior, the cousin of Ice Cube’s Ronnie in The Player’s Club. In Menace II Society, he made a name as the climax’s antagonist, Illena’s cousin.
Monroe also poked some fun at his intimidating demenaor, playing Sam in the Wayans brothers led parody Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood.
