Samuel Monroe Jr., the director behind popular ’90s films like “Menace II Society” and “Tales from the Hood,” is critically ill because doctors initially misidentified a meningitis infection.
Shawna Stewart, wife of Lil’ Romeo (Monroe), told Complex that he got meningitis while filming in Las Vegas a year and a half ago.
According to Stewart, the man visited multiple hospitals, but his condition was consistently misdiagnosed. This lack of proper diagnosis meant his meningitis went untreated for eight months.
By the time doctors figured out what was wrong, the actor’s infection had already spread to both his spine and brain.
Meningitis is an infection that causes swelling around the brain and spinal cord, according to the Mayo Clinic. Common symptoms include headache, fever, and a stiff neck. While usually caused by viruses, it can also be caused by bacteria, parasites, or fungi.
The family started a GoFundMe campaign on Monday, explaining that the medical bills have created a huge financial burden. Over the past nine months, the actor has been treated at several hospitals and two rehab facilities. The fundraiser states that if he wakes up and is taken off life support, he will need constant, 24/7 care.
Tayonna Stewart explained on the GoFundMe page that everyone is hoping for the best for Samuel, and doesn’t want to focus on negative thoughts. Any money donated will be used to create a meaningful and respectful memorial service for his loved ones to attend.
The actor’s mom, Joyce Patton, also shared the news on Facebook and asked for prayers for her son.
On Saturday, a mother shared that her son, Samuel Monroe Jr., is on life support and asked for prayers. She expressed her faith, saying she believes in God’s plan, but humbly requested his compassion and favor for Sam. She lovingly added, ‘I love you son… to the moon and back a hundred times over.’
The GoFundMe campaign has currently raised 7% of its $50,000 target. Kurt Alexander, host of the “Big Boy’s Neighborhood” radio show, has donated $1,000.
Actor Monroe, who has also performed as “Caffeine” and “Caffamilliano,” began his career in 1993 with a role alongside Patti LaBelle in the TV series “Out All Night.” He quickly followed that up with a film appearance as Ilena’s cousin in the movie “Menace II Society.”
He’s appeared in several films, including “Tales from the Hood,” “Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood,” “What Goes Around Comes Around,” “Set It Off,” and “The Players Club.”
Most recently, he acted in 2023 films “Packz” and “Payment Received.”
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2026-04-29 02:31