As the Big Mafia Family series burst onto our screens in 2021, the intriguing tales of the Flenory brothers, Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory and Terry Flenory, kept viewers glued. But among these, the character of Lamar Silas, portrayed by actor Eric Kofi-Abrefa, caught many eyes.
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Behind this enigmatic character lies the real story of Layton Simon, a former American drug dealer. Despite rumors of his demise, Layton remains very much alive and has a tale worth telling.
Table of Contents
From Protector to Drug Dealer
Layton’s journey into the dark alleys of Detroit’s drug world began with a dire situation at home. At the tender age of eight, Layton valiantly defended his mother from two drug addicts using a shotgun. This courageous act wasn’t just about protection; it instilled in him a sense of confidence and readiness for the challenges of street life.
By 14, Layton was deep into the drug business, learning from infamous drug lord Harold Stinson. Just a year into the trade, he could afford a car and soon became the kingpin of Southwest Detroit’s drug operation.
Foes and Allegiances in the Drug World
Layton’s rise wasn’t without rivals. The Flenory brothers, especially Big Meech, were among them. Their disputes led to violent confrontations, including an incident where Layton shot Big Meech 18 times, narrowly missing fatal wounds.
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However, Layton harbored respect for Big Meech, admiring his strict code against snitching. This respect wasn’t extended to Edrick E.D. Boyd, who Layton alleges betrayed him to the authorities. Interestingly, Layton noted songwriting couple Ashford & Simpson as his biggest adversaries in the drug business.
The Law and Layton Simon
Layton’s brushes with the law began early, with an arrest at nine years old during the 1967 Detroit riots. His illegal activities continually attracted law enforcement attention, culminating in a significant crackdown. Forced to vacate his territory, the Flenory brothers seized control.
Layton Simon’s Life Today
Contrary to his BMF portrayal, the real Layton Simon is alive. After a life of crime, he’s turned over a new leaf. Layton is back in Detroit, advocating for youth development, mentoring teenagers, and sharing his life story to deter them from crime. His dedication extends to speaking engagements, emphasizing education’s value and the dangers of criminality. Additionally, Layton has launched his clothing line, Made In Plan, the proceeds of which support his community initiatives.
Eric Kofi-Abrefa as Lamar in BMF
British actor Eric Kofi-Abrefa brilliantly brings Layton’s character to life as Lamar Silas in BMF. Born on September 7th, 1976, Kofi-Abrefa first made a splash with his role in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom in 2018. While his portrayal in BMF resonates with Layton’s life, it’s essential to note some creative liberties, especially in scenes involving violence against women and children, which Layton vehemently denies in real life.
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Conclusion
While the BMF series captures the essence of Layton Simon’s life, it’s crucial to differentiate between reel and real. Layton Simon’s transformation from a drug kingpin to a community pillar showcases the possibilities of redemption and change, even amidst life’s harshest challenges.
FAQs about Layton Simon and the BMF Series
- Who is Layton Simon?
- Layton Simon is a former American drug dealer from Detroit who inspired the character Lamar Silas in the TV series, Big Mafia Family (BMF).
- Is Layton Simon still alive?
- Yes, despite rumors, Layton Simon is still alive and is now an advocate for youth development and social change in Detroit.
- Who portrayed Lamar Silas in the BMF series?
- The character of Lamar Silas in BMF was portrayed by British actor Eric Kofi-Abrefa.
- How accurate is the BMF series in depicting Layton Simon’s life?
- While many elements of Lamar Silas’s character are based on Layton Simon’s life, the show has taken creative liberties, and certain events or characteristics might not be accurate representations of Layton’s life.
- Did Layton Simon really shoot Big Meech 18 times?
- Layton did have a confrontation with Big Meech, during which he shot at him 18 times, with only one bullet grazing Meech’s cheek.
- What is Layton Simon’s current profession?
- Layton Simon has transitioned from his past life and is now an advocate for youth development in Detroit. He is also the founder of a clothing line called Made In Plan.
