Who is Layton Simon? Meet the real Lamar from BMF

Layton Simon’s life is like a story from a TV drama – starting with a tough childhood in Detroit, becoming a big name in the drug world, and then completely changing his life to help young people. His life story inspired the character Lamar Silas in the popular TV show BMF (Black Mafia Family). Let’s dive into Layton Simon’s life, from his early days to now being a positive force in his community.

Profile summary

Full name	Layton Simon
Gender	Male
Year of birth	1958
Age	67 years old (as of 2024)
Place of birth	Detroit, Michigan, United States
Current residence	Detroit, Michigan, United States
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	African-American
Religion	Christianity
Sexuality	Straight
Siblings	4
Relationship status	Single
Children	5
Profession	Youth advocate

Who is Layton Simon?

Born and raised in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, Layton Simon is a figure of significant complexity. His life, marked by early encounters with the law, deep involvement in the drug trade, and a subsequent shift towards community advocacy, reflects a profound transformation. Today, Simon is recognized not just for his past as a drug dealer but also for his contributions as a youth advocate in the United States.

Early Life

Born and raised in the tough neighborhoods of Detroit, Michigan, Layton Simon’s early life was steeped in adversity. Surrounded by four siblings, he was thrust into the role of protector at a tender age. At just eight years old, he famously defended his mother from attackers with nothing but a shotgun and sheer courage. This defining moment was a harbinger of the resilience and fearlessness that would characterize his later life.

Layton Simon’s Foray into the Underworld

By the age of 14, Layton had already entered the dangerous world of drug trafficking, learning the ropes from none other than Harold Stinson, a notorious drug lord of the time. His adeptness at navigating the drug scene quickly propelled him to prominence, overseeing the Southwest Detroit drug operations. Layton’s ambition led him to acquire a 1972 Lincoln Town car at just 15, a testament to his early success.

Rivalry with the Flenory Brothers

Layton’s ascent within Detroit’s drug circuit inevitably led to conflict with other gangs, most notably the Flenory brothers, Big Meech and Southwest T. Despite their altercations, Layton respected Big Meech for adhering to street codes and not involving the police, a courtesy not extended by other rivals, including Edrick E.D. Boyd.

Legal Troubles and Arrests

Layton’s confrontations with the law began as early as nine years old, during the 1967 Detroit riots. Over the years, his criminal activities led to numerous arrests, culminating in a significant police raid on his operations. This event marked a turning point, forcing him out of the drug trade and paving the way for a new chapter in his life.

Advocacy and Social Change

Today, Layton Simon stands as a pillar of his community, dedicating his life to mentoring youth and advocating for education and against crime. His transformation from a notorious drug dealer to a respected advocate highlights the potential for change and redemption.

Who is Lamar in BMF?

Lamar Silas, portrayed by Eric Kofi-Abrefa in BMF, draws significant inspiration from Layton’s life. However, Layton has clarified that the show’s portrayal, particularly scenes involving violence towards women and children, does not reflect his actions or values.

The BMF Portrayal: Fact vs. Fiction

While the BMF series has brought Layton Simon’s story to a wider audience, it’s essential to distinguish between the man and the dramatized portrayal of Lamar Silas. Simon’s real-life experience, while echoing some aspects of Lamar’s character, diverges in significant ways, especially in matters of morality and violence.

Is Layton Simon Married?

Layton’s personal life remains just that – personal. While he has been married in the past, he currently focuses on his advocacy work, leaving questions about his current relationship status unanswered.

Does Layton Simon Have Children?

Layton Simon has five children, with whom he shares a bond that has undoubtedly influenced his advocacy work.

Where is Layton Simon Now?

Currently residing in Detroit, Michigan, Layton Simon is a beacon of hope in his community. As the founder of the clothing line, Made In Plan, he channels his resources into supporting youth development initiatives. Through speaking engagements and mentorship, Simon leverages his storied past to guide young people away from the pitfalls of crime.

FAQs

How old is Layton Simon? Layton Simon’s exact age is shrouded in mystery, though he is estimated to be around 67 years old, hinting at a birth year around 1958.

Who portrayed Lamar Silas in the BMF series? British actor Eric Kofi-Abrefa brings the character of Lamar Silas to life, drawing from Simon’s real-life experiences to inform his portrayal.

What Happened to Layton Simon? After leaving the drug trade, Layton returned to Detroit, transforming his life to become an advocate for youth development and social change. He is actively involved in mentoring and speaks at various events to share his story.

Is Layton Simon married? Currently, Simon is not married. He has previously been married and is a father to five children, showcasing a side of him that values family and personal connections.

Does Layton Simon Have Children? Yes, Layton Simon has five children.

Does Layton Simon have siblings? Yes, Layton grew up with four siblings, including one brother who is now deceased, and three sisters, highlighting a family dynamic that shaped his early life.

Is Layton Simon still involved in crime? No, Layton Simon has turned a new leaf, dedicating his life to positive community impact and youth mentorship, proving that people can indeed change.