The Murder of Merlin Santana & The survival Of Brandon Adams : 2 friends caught in the line of fire

Former child actors Brandon Quintin Adams and Merlin Santana known for his prime role as “Romeo Santana” on “The Steve Harvey Show” were victims of a shooting that resulted in Merlin’s premature demise. Take a look at this video to learn the details of this unfortunate tragedy..

[@GreenLantern1971.]

Should have given the girl the life plus 70 since she set the whole murder up

[@viclor2876]

Facts, females get away too easy. Not only that, Noone is mentioning how fcked up our females can be. It's always the black man's fault. It really urks me.

[@GEMof72]

Exactly

[@rickyfrancois6548]

Yes.. Under the jail

[@rbgsista9236]

Not a 15 year old, I believe those dudes put her up to it

[@GreenLantern1971.]

@@rbgsista9236 a persons mind will change if it happens to them,15 or not.

[@2ndBattBigSarg]

Man I remember this like it was yesterday. Me and my best friend were on Crenshaw that night and Merlin was just chillin at the gas station in a silver Bimmer 740iL by himself. Spoke to us like he knew us and was super cool. 10 mins later, he’s parked behind us on Crenshaw in the gutter lane, we said what up so the young chicks would think we knew him and he actually spoke back and asked us where we were going. Chopped it up and left out. 2 hours later one of the homies said they heard he had been shot and was in the front seat slumped over on King. Our cities violence really hit home for me and my boy, seniors in High school at the time. We had just saw him 2 hrs before smh. I graduated, joined the military and never looked back. Your last day here, you left two high school kids from the hood with a great memory of you champ. RIP to you King🙏🏽

[@julesalvarez]

omg, everybody says how nice he was. So good to know that!

[@myishacherry7242]

What a beautiful memory...& thank you for your service & having made a postive life path sir

[@CREOLEHEAT]

Congratulations on the life you made for yourself!

[@lickingchase4296]

Damn that's deep big ups to YOU brother ❤

[@marcowaller2632]

Damn that’s crazy as fuck

[@Drclu]

I never knew Brandon was present during Merlin’s murder. Wow😢

[@anonimothy5979]

He was also present when Romeo from Immature was blinded in one eye. Even held a piece of his eye in his hand. That man done went through some thangs when he was young.

[@rbgsista9236]

Yeah all these years they only mentioned a girl and Merlin

[@anonimothy5979]

@@rbgsista9236 Sources should've known that us fans would've found those details important.

[@ashunt29]

I was thinking the same thing. He has never told his story.

[@willia3r]

@@anonimothy5979 Those _”Sources”_ don’t care and never did care. They just wanted folks like you to see Merlin Santana as just another irresponsible brotha who likely deserved his unfortunate fate😕

[@talesofcsoplahia]

His death and Lamont Bentley’s death bothered me very deeply. I don’t understand how humans can do other humans the way they did Merlin. There was absolutely no reason to do that. What was wrong with getting a job and living the best life possible?

[@zendavis3501]

You are delusional as hell and the way you think you’re next to get robbed and smoked. What type of utopian fantasy are you living in. Shit is real. People get caught up even celebrities everyday. That is why you have to be extremely vigilant and observant of your surroundings.

[@gerardlee7088]

This is heartbreaking story about Merlin he was such a talented brother. May he RIP.

[@barryraven1936]

Yes Sir.

[@MrCameramanJ]

Yeah sad indeed. He was already on his way to become a mega star. R.I.P

[@tonieholiday2907]

Huge for Cary bring 🎉

[@zacharyspinks6207]

🙏🏽🕊️😓

[@daniellepreyar]

This is such a tragedy. Really sad Merlin lost his life over something so senseless. I hope Brandon is doing well, but I'm sure that event scarred him psychologically. 😢❤️❤️

[@melissasmith50]

I just replied to a comment using that exact word, senseless. He's gone over nothing, she came in on some bullshit!

[@Dee_Nice89]

​​@@melissasmith50 Karma's a Bitch and she will get hers, 8 years in Juvie wasn't enough

[@anonimothy5979]

@@melissasmith50 There's a woman who commented on another video, saying she had been at a juvenile detention center with her, and she said Monique King was delusional, talking like she and Merlin were a couple. I also heard that she was clinically mentally ill. Not just cray-cray but literally out-there.

[@lacarte2008]

Facts

[@cbroughton7546]

Three other boy died to later

[@dimplez27davis66]

See how lying on a man can cause so much pain? SAD And yes she should have received life too! 😢

[@Laura-sg6ss]

Everyone knows, everybody knows. No one has ever denied that. Ever.

[@mysharona6754]

When I was a teenager I always looked forward to the Steve Harvey show, it was a comfort show. I was really shocked to hear what happened. Of course most murders are tragic, but something like this is beyond senselessly tragic

[@rahsaanthomas7030]

During his morning radio show, Steve was venting his anger out (understandably) about Merlin's death and the thug mentality with some folks have. He told women to stop giving men a place to hide when they just committed a crime. He kept rambling and left the studio moments later.

[@kingroyaltytrucking9353]

I still watch it everyday

[@roselynholloway7863]

@@rahsaanthomas7030 do you remember what else Steve said

[@num1Jaysta]

@@rahsaanthomas7030I hope someone has that recording

[@jalenaverylloydaveryiisson8862]

R.I.P. this brother...May he and my dad, lloyd Fernandez avery ii, rest peacefully on the heavens above since the world will never forget them!!! 🙏✝️🕊🕊💯

[@nattycee4156]

Oh I can see the resemblance in you 😄 They were both really good actors, your father did very well in Boyz N The Hood. They will be missed 🙏🏾🕊️

[@jalenaverylloydaveryiisson8862]

@@nattycee4156 me and the averys usually watch my dad's movies when we have gatherings 🙏✝️💯

[@doneeshacunningham2949]

​@@jalenaverylloydaveryiisson8862 I'm sorry for your lost ,your dad was an amazing actor and I hate what had happened to him. He had so much potential

[@trinashantae5037]

@@jalenaverylloydaveryiisson8862 I met your father when he came to San Diego in the early 90’s to be in my brother’s music video. He was very talented. RIP to him. My condolences to you and your family.

[@ARenae-vo4ch]

Jalen Wilson???

[@purejoy1985]

Had the biggest crush on him, Brandon, all the ones that would be in the teen magazines with pull out posters. I can't believe he has been gone for so long, right around the time we lost Aaliyah and Left Eye. Such a great time that I miss so much and the type of wholesome tv we once had. The ones that always had a special episode where parents would give moral lesson on the topic and that cheesy soft dramatic music would play as they spoke. I miss those days so much. RIP to Mr. Santana, gone but will never be forgotten.

[@andregoings4616]

Merlins the one thats gone not Brandon. 😢

[@myishacherry7242]

@@andregoings4616 She didn't say Brandon was gone; she said she had crushes on "...him, Brandon, AND the other" young heartthrobs in the teen magazines at the time💞

[@Jaysqn]

Random Thought: Merlin Santana, Brandon Adams, Jason Weaver, and Keshia Knight-Pulliman, them four always came off like they could be real life biological relatives. They give a best cousins type of vibe those four if y’all think about it.

[@missvida6251]

It's their eyes

[@hotvegas2498]

FACTS! 💯

[@GEMof72]

True

[@GEMof72]

@@missvida6251 Exactly

[@CelltheGREAT]

Big facts

[@maj.kamper9314]

As a kid I loved the movie people under the stairs. R.I.P Merlin

[@riz-rq9wr]

That movie is as played by Brandon not Merlin or you knew that already if so sorry lol

[@kaleahcollins4567]

I let my kids watch it too one of my favorite still

[@levil4012]

Highest extent of hate of your own people..SMH SENSELESS

[@lisabrightly]

He had a lot of charisma and was a good actor. Bless him 😔

[@anonimothy5979]

I used to think his generation was the end of all that charisma, but I've seen some great actors come after them. Jharrel Jerome, who's also Afro-Latino, is one of them.

[@nehsangbong7259]

I can't even imagine what Brandon has been feeling all these years now. 💔

[@theregallady]

Horrible what happened to them R.I.P. Merlin 🕊️🕊️

[@dansullivan8368]

I miss him too steve harvey show 😢

[@tanitrarobinson7477]

Merlin was murdered....set up

[@rickyfrancois6548]

Yup by the hands and influence of a young black girl

[@fawkkyutuu8851]

@@rickyfrancois6548 Most only turn out that way because they grow up in poverty which breeds gangs and violence and learning to manipulate or do whatever you gotta do to survive , same with the dudes she was with who wanted to rob them. Ask yourself where the majority of Black American poverty started and It'll always trace back to oppression and slavery leaving them overwhelmingly born into an economic disadvantage , that young Black girl was merely a product and generational long-term effect of old White racism. I feel like we have to keep that In mind we really can't blame the Black race as a whole.

[@mariemarie3614]

@@rickyfrancois6548 .... ashame two grown men were missing around with a minor

[@Gynka30]

This is so awful to hear. I had a huge crush on him as Stanley on the Cosby show. Monique should’ve gotten more time.

[@danabenson4125]

I had a crush on both Merlin and Brandon. I didn't know until today that Brandon was with him when he got killed.

[@maryperry6573]

@@danabenson4125 yup, saw them coming, tried to warn him but he didn’t hear in time. Brandon has seen quite a few things in his life too..

[@mt.billings1234]

Yep,that's the problem,these kids want to act dumb and think they are adults doing stuff like setting people up and murder, and because they are kids they get less time, even I'm sorry gang stuff, because the older people told them to for that reason,nope I don't care if you're twelve , fourteen,death penalty,no chances ,

[@roselynholloway7863]

@@maryperry6573 you tried to warn someone?

[@dakritic]

Damn! She should have gotten it least 15-20 years.

[@tavarusartis4507]

That's what so many ppl said. Not only did she set him up to be killed but the whole set up was based off a lie she told. She told those guys that Merlin sexually assaulted her. She told them that lie cause he didn't want to date her. He said he didn't want to date anyone, he was focused on his career. All this came out in the news and on court..... this guy left out the full lie she told to those other men.

[@doneeshacunningham2949]

​@@tavarusartis4507 this why they never believe the real victims of rape because of evil demons like her . She let him hit and was mad that he was on to the next . So she lied

[@Havonna8253]

@@tavarusartis4507 Merlin obviously lied when he told that girl that he didn't want to date anyone and that he was focused on his career because his brother that has a KZbin channel mentioned years ago that Merlin was in a relationship and his brother said that he had an engagement ring and was going to propose to the woman he was dating. His brother also mentioned after Merlin was murdered their family gave his girlfriend the engagement ring and she started crying.

[@tavarusartis4507]

@@Havonna8253 his focusing on his career was what he stated that part was no lie. Now his telling her he didn't want a relationship was his way of gently letting her down without going overboard on hurting her feelings. She in fact lied about her age, she in fact had mental issues, she in fact had other things going on. Why would he or anyone else want to date anyone with so many issues. She couldn't take rejection and LIED about being sexually assaulted. So regardless to his having a fiancée that doesn't justify being set up to be killed.

[@tavarusartis4507]

@@Havonna8253 and he may or may not have cheated on his fiancee but overall the young lady that lied set him up to be unalive cause she couldn't handle rejection.

[@SHEMAVXN]

Merlin is sorely missed. I almost passed this story by because it still hurts my heart to know such a beautiful soul was taken from the earth in such a tragic way. I know he is in heaven with the Good Lord.

[@tanitrarobinson7477]

How does a whole 15year old set up a murder plot????? Where were her parents? They allowed a 15 year old to be out at night? Lord help!

[@mariemarie3614]

...she definitely wasn't the "mastermind" just a pawn. She could've been parentless or just plain reckless 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@anthonygordon9483]

My guess is drugs. She probably was kicked out of the house or ran away. She was probably already prostituting. How they met in this story still seems a little murky in the waters. If your that desperate to rob someone, your a junkie. I was raised on the streets, most guys that some what had their head together were drug dealers not robbers. Most gun robbers are junkies cause they were too fucked up to deal drugs and too desperate to wait for their next hit.

[@blakewilliams5627]

@@mariemarie3614 she was the mastermind. She admitted it. She thought it was cool that somebody would kill for her.

[@matheuslemos8555]

Her parents were on drugs, just like her.

[@rhaksol9564]

It's Los Angels

[@chasedimpeoplesministries5420]

This is one of the kindest memorials Ive ever seen. What a beautiful display of respect, love, and honor.

[@fashionista.talenista96]

Oooohhhh, I remember that episode of Sister-Sister. That's why I remembered him. I used to watch Sister-Sister 24/7, even if it was the re-runs.

[@ronaldminniefield2650]

Man i loved this dude in the STEVE HARVEY SHOW I was a big fan so much potential I miss this dude GREATNESS LEFT SO SOON. RIP.....

[@albertol9654]

I just love this dude swag.. He was so charismatic too. Rest in power.

[@oscarvillarreal8951]

I thought these 2 guys were related? I didn't know Brandon was with Santana in this situation? Wow! This makes sense. I've always asked myself what happened to that kid from the Mighty ducks? He had talent. Never knew if he passed away? But then I saw him 1 DAY in a post pic a couple of years later with the reunion of the Sand lot. I was like "Sheesh! I'm glad he's alive & Well👍!" Rip to Merlin. Thank GOD 🙏 Brandon is Well.

[@504nolaishome8]

I didn't know Brandon was either. 🤦🏽🙏🏽🌹

[@melissasmith50]

Same here, 1st time someone told all the details of what happened to them. It was absolutely senseless 🙏🏾🕊️

[@riz-rq9wr]

Sameeee I always thought they was related as well and I also didn’t know they was in that car together wow

[@coswingrant6003]

I thought both of them, Rudy too, were related. At least as kids all 3 looked alike

[@SadieJFly]

❤❤❤❤Rip King he had such a bright future ahead of him extremely talented and handsome

[@dreya3]

I remember when all this happened. There are some evil people in this world. May he rest peacefully and Brandon smile at the more positive memories they shared together.

[@ragantate3995]

I remember when it was announced on the Steve Harvey radio show in Los Angeles. This case hurts eternally. Merlin was someone who didn’t deserve what happened to him. He wasn’t that kind of guy. If there were such a thing as trading places, he should be here and folks who actually do take advantage of young girls should be six feet deep, not him.

[@Supertoxie1]

What were these two grown men gonna do with the girl? Just be her friend all night? They was finna run a train on a 15 year old g..

[@mymusicstore1]

​​@@Supertoxie1 "Supertoxic1"...😒 At the 5:53 mark, he clearly states that she lied to them about her age. I'm quite certain these two gentlemen wouldn't haven't pursued her, had they known her age.

[@DiamondTierra]

@@Supertoxie1 First of all she literally lied about her age & second it wasn’t both of them dealing with her just Merlin.

[@Supertoxie1]

@@DiamondTierra so a 15 year old fooled 2 grown men. It's just as stupid.. Oh, and they were both dealing with her literally. If you actually knew the story then you know Merlin's boy was the one who said she wasn't acting right. Yep. Just two grown ass men with a 15 year old who lied about her age.. So, how old did she say she was? That's part of the story we don't know.

[@Supertoxie1]

@@mymusicstore1 yeah but c'mon G.. A 15 year old fooled two grown men. It's the thirst that gotem..

[@aGwEENapple]

I didn't know him and Brandon were friends. I'm sorry Brandon you had to lose your friend! Merlin didn't deserve to have his life cut short. 🌹 Merlin was a fantastic actor and beautiful young man.

[@dejab.5454]

His murder happened 2 blocks down on the same street my grandmother lives on. Smh. I remember when it happened. It still breaks my heart to this day. I used to have a crush on him when I was a young girl. RIP 🤴🏾

[@YoungSwaggness]

Merlin’s death still fucks me up till this day I remember hearing about it when I was in the 7th grade after always watching him on the Steve Harvey Show and the Cosby Show Man R.I.P My Big Dawg Merlin Santana 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@henrywilliamson8798]

Damn. I heard he was shot and killed but never knew the backstory of what actually happened. So sad. He was very talented. RIP

[@MrCameramanJ]

Yeah the office that was describing the incident, said it was a lucky shot, cause the bullet was fire from a long distance from the back of the vehicle and went straight to the back windows to straight to the back of the driver's seat chair where he was seating back to his head. That girl that lied to them is pure evil, wish they had kept her in jail. R.I.P

[@roleteabyloyalt8354]

Well back, when it happened it was actually said an ex killed him purposely.

[@louivillehammer4346]

He was killed over a b*tch

[@KMLove-ie2jq]

@@roleteabyloyalt8354 Right! That's how I remember the story too. It was said that it was a jealous ex-girl friend shot him back in the day. Either way, tragic ending for such a talented young man 😔😔.

[@darkpisces8125]

Actually this isn’t what I heard. I heard the chic lied about her age and Merlin turned her down because she was too young. And then told her brothers that Merlin had assaulted her.

[@deeperbeauty4147]

Every time I hear this story, it's so senseless. It's really sad..That didn't have to happen..RIP, Merlin..Brandon stay strong. She should have gotten more time for her involvement in his death.. People are definitely not to be trusted. I learn that more and more everyday..Wow!

[@cyneathiajones-gray5958]

She should have gotten Time as a Juvenile and Transferred to an Adult Prison when she became of Age. Lazy Children trying to TAKE What Others Work So Hard for to Achieve. Jealousy, Envy, Covenant spirits... Eternal Death will be the End for Many. RIPowerlessness for Those Who "MURDER."

[@pdnat1458]

Back in 2002, I met Merlin in LA. The weird thing about this is that I saw him at Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles, then Starbucks, and then Borders Books. This was a couple of months before he got killed. Very sad concerning his death.

[@MakeMeCare89]

Nat did he ever say what he was doing at Borders Books?

[@pdnat1458]

@@MakeMeCare89 He was browsing just like I was. There was a young lady with him. I'm not sure if it was the same one that set him up. It was so ironic that I ran into him three times that day.

[@roselynholloway7863]

@@pdnat1458 did you ever see the picture of the girl who set him up

[@iampatricewalker]

I used to talk to Brandon Adams on the phone after school when we were kids. We used to call each other cousins. He lived in California (where I wanted to live since I was a child), and I was living in Massachusetts. We had some of the same friends who were in the music and acting industries. It's wild, I haven't talked to him in YEARS... We are grown up now. I actually (now as an adult) finally made it to Los Angeles to "become a star" like I always dreamed I would. 🥰 I am looking forward to crossing paths with Brandon again... to catch up and make sure he is good. I knew about what happened with he and Marlin years ago, but we lost contact back when I was in the 8th grade. I am pretty sure we will reconnect. My ancestors say we will. We never got the chance to take that trip to Magic Mountain that we tried to arrange as youngsters! ❤️❤️ I did not know Merlin, my heart goes out to his family; his loved ones. I believe the girl who was part of this set up should have gotten more time--despite her age. I am hoping that at the very least, she has grown and has learned a major lesson... and makes better choices. As far as Brandon, I am sending healing love and energy your way, my friend.

[@myishacherry7242]

That's so cute! Hope you re-connect soon. Brandon is the son of one of my aunt's really close girlfriends

[@whoodro7278]

They were like twins. I mistook one for the other this wholetime

[@notatechguy1209]

Certain things just never sit right with ya. I followed both Brandon and Merlin's careers from the beginning since they are only a few years my senior. I would rewind Brandon's musical number in Polly to learn every word and I wanted to be Merlin when he got the role as Rudy's boyfriend in The Cosby Show, just to get next to Rudy. I would have expected these two brothers to be leading men in films right now still in their 40s. RIP to brother Merlin and well wishes to Brandon in reclaiming his career. These brothers were two standout talents.

[@melissasmith50]

I watched "Polly" on here recently, I loved that movie when I was growing up

[@anonimothy5979]

Now this is a comment I can relate to.

[@thelegacyofgaming2928]

The Steve Harvey Show

[@KK32022]

I loved them both, especially Merlin, hell I wanted to be Rudy just to get next to Merlin! Poly was my favorite movie as a kid, I used to sing and dance along with it as well.

[@anonimothy5979]

@@KK32022 Rudy Huxtable was everything to me. Polly, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court, The Little Match Girl, the Saturday Morning Cartoon Special with the cast of Punky Brewster and the Christmas special with the cast of Family Ties, etc... she was the IT Girl of my childhood.

[@pierre459]

Here we are in the year 2023, and I'm just now hearing of this incident. I forgot all about both of these child actors whom I grew up watching in the '90s. Wow! I'm both shocked at what took place and saddened. My heart is heavy over something that happened over 20 years ago.😞Merlin was full of charisma and fun to watch on the Steve Harvey show. RIP. I hope Brandon is doing better as time has gone by.

[@anonimothy5979]

Wow, you grew up watching them and you're just now finding out? I'm not too different, though. It might've been a few years after the date when I found out. His death didn't get much coverage.

[@OmarScruggs]

How you a fan but just finding this out. You cant be serious

[@anonimothy5979]

Awesome, I just realized you're an actor, yourself! Much success to you.

[@xDaddyx68]

You must have been under a rock

[@mskiara18]

I enjoyed both Brandon and Merlin's talents growing up, but was not aware they were friends. What happened to Merlin is why I hate lies, too many people lost their lives because of a lie. The girl who caused his end should have received life in prison, he should be here today.

[@chillywillie6283]

This is why l am extremely cautious about people l get involved with.

[@oshiablackirish7749]

Seeing them together they don't look alike but I used to get them confused as a kid 🤦🏽‍♀️love them both RIP Merlin 😭

[@missvida6251]

They looked so similar. Both so handsome. RIP Merlin and best wishes Brandon

[@funkyworm6517]

Romeo and Bullethead Forever!

[@purposedriventv]

I love how tasteful you were with explaining this unfortunate event!

[@ahmad.tillery.1987]

Happy Heavenly Birthday Merlin Santana March 14, 1976 - November 9, 2002.

[@anjealin259]

Wow, definitely two of my celebrity crushes in the 90’s. Didn’t know they were friends nor that Brandon was there for the shooting. I always heard the story that Merlin was shot by his girlfriend, so sad 😔

[@anonimothy5979]

Isn't it funny how Brandon considered him his best friend, and so did Deon Richmond? All 3 of them played memorable opposite roles with Keshia Knight Pulliam at one time.

[@rickyfrancois6548]

I never heard he got shot by his girlfriend.. 😒😑

[@cyrahomega]

That’s so sad. Glad Brandon has the strength to continue. That’s traumatic af.

[@toriwalker2209]

I just want to say thank you finally we are getting a complete story finally we got to see everyone involved finally there is clear understanding of what took place thank you again and the best friend was able to get his life back after going through this and I'm glad they caught everyone involved! Although the young lady still got of easy

[@stellabellafontay9366]

That is Hoyt-Schermerhorn train station in Brooklyn, NY. It's been used in movies for decades. R.I.P. to Merlin. Such a tragic loss.

[@anonimothy5979]

This never gets old. Hopefully, we'll see Brandon pour his heart out about everything, one day.

[@BLOXKAFELLARECORDS]

I remember when he passed. 😔 🙏🏼

[@lafredahendricks1232]

I did remember him too, Handsome Young man RIP 🙏

[@Mr.Marcuzz]

I’ve always heard different versions about this story. Glad to finally hear the truth. RIP Merlin Santana.

[@SuperMogul]

His career catalog, is longer than some actors today.🙏🏿

[@chloeg2891]

I remember this like it was yesterday! Plus one of my good friend's son was killed that same day he was 19. My heart will be forever broken 💔🙏🏻 I always loved me some Merlin Santana❤️

[@latrindah]

I had wondered what had happened to Brandon I use to have a big crush on him when I was a little girl. I didn't know him and Merlin was best friends but that is so sad of the passing of Merlin. Rest in peace Merlin 🙏🏾 I pray that Brandon is having some closure and that he's doing ok.

[@J.letsTalk]

This is why I say study the people that you encounter. Study them like a final exam.

[@linnettejoseph7027]

Sad,sad story I always wondered what happened to them exactly and now I know.Glad he lived to tell the truth of the situation and hope he can get back on track with his life.........

[@hotvegas2498]

They are being nice on this video. Around the time this happened, I heard that Monique wanted to date Merlin BUT she was rejected. So, she made up a story that they had assaulted her.

[@rickyfrancois6548]

Be quiet.. you sound weird! Get back on track??.. what heartless thing to say.. he lost a best friend you cold blooded moron

[@dyce211]

Miss this dude so much. I grew up watching both of them. Made my childhood so special.

[@deandreray3500]

I remember when Merlin got killed 8 months or so after the Steve Harvey Show ended I was like damn man hard to believe it’s been 21 years 😢

[@shaylah2725]

sending so much love to Brandon. I couldnt imagine having to live w/ a memory like that SMH Rest In Peace Merlin ❤❤❤

[@krissiemurray6018]

this still makes me sad. it was a shame that these two men were affected like this. merlin shud still b wit us and I can even imagine wat Brandon feels

[@darincampbell171]

I just know how I would feel if I saw my best friend get shot! I pray that Brandon manages the best that he can. Rest in peace to Merlin. Peace.

[@lisajohnson24lj]

Men please learn from this story , I mean look at how calculated she was and for what ! , I loved Merlin , he was so handsome and a good actor S.I.P 🤍🕊️. To Brandon I 🙏🏽that time has been kind to you & helped you to heal, loved you in Moonwalker 🥰.

[@brianh3253]

Wow! This is crazy. I used to live directly across the street from Brandon back in those days. All this time, I never knew he was with Merlin during the shooting.

[@newera5238]

RIP to our Brother 😑🙏…this case ALWAYS messed my head up. A fella that all the ladies loved❤, and all the fellas can relate to💪🏽. A talent gone but not forgotten!

[@46st]

Beautiful man I'm glad u respected these young brothers I looked to both all my life it's wild man God Bless Everyone Take Care

[@anonimothy5979]

Merlin's little brother, the guy who played Bullet-Head on Steve Harvey and the host of Celebrity Underrated gave details about Merlin's personal life that I never knew. Now it seems like his murder was inevitable. To sum things up, his fearlessness often helped lead him to places where safety is heavily compromised. He was hanging out with the Yellow Top Crew on the east coast, in South Central on the west coast, and all the while, interacting with dangerous people more often than not (which even made Deon Richmond from The Cosby Show wonder). As a celebrity heart throb, trotting through the hood, it was only a matter of time.

[@seaor2k122]

It's so sad this young brotha lost his life in this manner. The whole point of making it out of the hood is to not go back to the hood and to disassociate yourself from your home boys who are up to no good.

[@anonimothy5979]

@@seaor2k122 You said exactly what the Yellow Top Crew said. "Why you tryin' to be like us? We tryin' to be where you at!" they told him. I personally believe he was trying to establish a hood persona. Possibly like Lloyd Avery was. Merlin played a thug in a movie called Harambee and wanted to become a hard-core rap artist. And like a number of other actors do, he may have been trying to be a part of the scene so he could come off as more authentic. Just one of my thoughts on it.

[@aaronx8006]

He lived next to me 103st and he sold crack himself and drove a blue Bmw convertible

[@anonimothy5979]

@@aaronx8006 Say what??? And 103rd in Los Angeles? I lived on 95th and Main when I first moved to Southern Cali. Wonder if he was using, too, because there's a book out that describes him like a substance abuser. His brother was furious about it, and I didn't want to believe it, myself.

[@aaronx8006]

@@anonimothy5979 no 103 st in Manhattan

[@TheJuwile]

20 yrs on and we still mourn you young talented black male ⚫️

[@Will008]

I could see Merlin playing “Adonis Creed” just as Michael B. Jordan did.

[@kitty-vk8ic]

Every time I hear about Marlon it hurts me so bad as if he is my closest family member may he rest in peace.

[@Kelly-mi1yz]

Omg I always wondered what happened. So sad. Rest in peace. I pray Brandon finds peace on earth.

[@NBeeGee01]

I still watch him on Steve Harvey show....RIP Merlin S...ur truly missed🙏🏾

[@SinzuSage]

Merlin Santana would’ve been a good Ralph Tresvant of New Edition

[@darbyhilltopreunion3061]

I hate to admit this but I didn't know that the child star & the adult star were one and the same. Gone too soon...rest in peace Merlin Santana.

[@anonimothy5979]

I totally know what you mean. I didn't know the solo artist, Lloyd, was the kid from the R&B group N-Toon. Lol

[@pn6528]

@@anonimothy5979 Me neither and I love Lloyd.

[@anonimothy5979]

@@pn6528 Me too. I met him last year in the Bay-Area. Wish I could've had the chance to meet Merlin.

[@jackiesklenicka3561]

Very sad😢 he was a good actor I've watched him on Steve Harvey was he on hanging with Mr Cooper to?

[@warrenlondon2426]

This is heartbreaking on so many levels. A talented brother killed senseless over nothing. So sad. May he Rest In Heavenly Peace.

[@mscardioqueen]

I didn't even know him personally, but I miss Merlin. I had a huge crush on him. Talented actor!

[@CaramelKissez]

I remember hearing about this story, I was so hurt

[@mz.punkin7669]

When you receive stardom and fame the life you had before must be altered. You can't run in the same circles and frequent the same places, jealousy and envy are the devils play ground. The death rate is higher amongst our black entertainers

[@khiry3889]

Chick was 15?! And with the intent to have them robbed costing this man's life over a lie....these kind of situations are exactly why I don't invite people that I just met to my home or anywhere around my folks.

[@regg217]

Crazy he played a high school student for 6 seasons

[@moneyman24258]

😂

[@Sko448s]

Shit I was in high school for 6 years 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@TheRealest127]

@@Sko448s 😂😂

[@julesalvarez]

hence why he was depressed. He wanted something new. Hollywood wasn't giving him any time

[@impressenterprisesllc8704]

@@Sko448s 😂😂😂😂

[@mallombellowheresmymoney5966]

Men like the Bible says be careful with the women you entertain

[@Bbcbullunit1]

God bless you for making this video❤

[@audreybfit3958]

Thank you, thank you so much for this message Ladies🙏🏽. Growing through my spiritual journey, I often felt like I need to be control and for that reason God has “parked me”, in order to let go of things. It’s been difficult, but hearing messages like this helps me to continue to persevere in faith and know God is working on my behalf. I enjoyed hearing CeCe Winans spiritual guidance on this topic. Wishing you all love and many blessings🙏🏽💜

[@JayRob2161]

My head hurts how a woman always gets a lighter sentence and she clearly lied which how she got to the studio , she was on trash from start to finish smdh

[@viclor2876]

Facts, and barely anyone talks about it

[@GEMof72]

She should have gotten more time than anyone.

[@YesImUrFather]

He had so much potential to be even more huge, RIP 🙏

[@ODK321]

I never knew that the guy driving was the actor Brandon Adams. I always heard it reported as Merlin's friend. Don't know why they didn't point out that he was an actor as well. Yeah, this is a horrible story. Be careful who you interact with, especially if you are well known.

[@julesalvarez]

They did. It's all over news. Especially LA TIMES on google.

[@csavoy125]

This broke my heart when I heard he was killed. This was so senseless! A good man taken too soon for no reason

[@shrimptempuraasmr3742]

It was devastating finding out he was killed back in the day.... I can't believe it has been this long.... May he RIP

[@anonimothy5979]

It wasn't publicized like other celebrity deaths. I, myself didn't find out until years later when a woman was interviewed about seeing him pop up at her church during mid-week service. This happened like a week or two before he was killed. He wasn't a member. In fact, he wasn't even in the same denomination (he was Catholic). But it was as if he knew something was about to happen and wanted prayer.

[@BucketsRus]

This is breaking news because nobody explained this in its entirety

[@impressenterprisesllc8704]

Or correctly

[@TheBrendon67]

I remember him. Had such a memorable face. Very impressive young actor. Real shame.

[@Lu-ml3qf]

Absolutely devastating 😢 💔

[@constantlyinlove]

I remember Brandon singing My Sweet Little Angel Eyes on Disney's remake of Pollyanna. I used to watch it all the time and I still sing it. It's nice to get an update about him

[@ronaldsanders9032]

The girl Monique was just 15 in 2002. She did 8 years in juvenile. In 2023 she is 36. Remotely young til this day. The chic definitely got away with a short sentence. Meanwhile, Merlin Santana was murdered at 26. Brandon Adams remains traumatized for 21 years. The irony in all the movie rows & shows they both accumulated. Sadly, it wasn't a script November 9, 2002. RIP Merlin

[@michaeld.williamsiii9026]

Love Brandon Adam’s in, The People Under The Stairs, a personal favorite of mine. This was and still is such a terrible awful tragedy…💔🙏🏾😢

[@impressenterprisesllc8704]

Yep that was a very good movie. I just hate that Merlin was taken so tragically and still had so much to offer.

[@chandradaniels1332]

Rip Merlin miss seeing you act pray Brandon’s career keep going and he has peace

[@eddiecoker4808]

Unbelievably sad. Grew up watching these guys. Much love everyone.

[@keishabonner7309]

Merlin was an in-demand actor. I loved him on Steve Harvey, and who could forget him has "Ohaji" on Moesha. That Monique character should have gotten more than 8 years--she caused the whole thing. RIP Merlin!

[@lovelynight5967]

I remember this, I'm glad they did eventually catch the shooters. Such an unfortunate event R.I.P. Merlin.

[@thephysixxs]

I was working at that studio w both of them a lot. They were both super talented and always on 10 w the swag! You could tell they both were naturals, having came up in the spotlight 👌🏽🎥🎼💯😎. Everything, the whole Vibe in the camp, became spiritually and emotionally twisted after the shooting 😣. I just happen to come across this on some utter randomness. Brought the whole thing back like is was yesterday. Great to hear 👂🏽 Brandon is back in front of the camera. He knows what to do 👍🏾🌎🎥💯😎

[@roselynholloway7863]

We’re they nice

[@OmarScruggs]

I was just randomly watching The People Under the Stairs. A childhood classic