Mr. Haskell Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. As a director and producer, he has collaborated with A-list celebrities like Tyga and Machine Gun Kelly. However, reports suggest that he expressed frustration on social media, feeling unable to attain the level of success achieved by his father.
Recent TikTok videos linked to Mr. Haskell Jr.’s account feature him complaining about his “unhappy, bitter, resentful” professional trajectory.
During his 27 years as an agent with the William Morris Agency, Mr. Haskell Sr. also produced specials for Dolly Parton, including “Dolly Parton’s Magic Mountain Christmas” and “Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors.”
Mr. Haskell Jr.’s mother, Mary Donnelly Haskell, is an actor and former Miss Mississippi (1977). Married to Mr. Haskell Sr. since 1982, they share another adult child.
The Family Dynamics: Mei, Samuel, and Their Children
Mei Haskell lived with her husband, Samuel, and their three children in a six-bedroom home in Tarzana. The family setting also included Mei’s parents, Gaoshan Li, 72, and YanXiang Wang, 64. Authorities officially reported Mei and her parents missing.
Investigators, while searching the Haskell residence, discovered blood and evidence consistent with violence and dismemberment. LAPD Detective Efren Gutierrez informed the media that attempts to reach Mei’s parents had been unsuccessful, raising concerns about their well-being.
The Ongoing Investigation: Unanswered Questions
As of now, forensic teams are working to confirm the identity of the discovered torso. LAPD’s Police Captain Scot Williams stated that the investigation is actively ongoing, with detectives diligently tracking leads and witnesses.
Samuel Bond Haskell IV is currently being held on a $2 million bail. Notably, court records reveal a past arrest in December 2008, where he faced charges of two counts of assault with a deadly weapon. In 2010, he pleaded no contest to battery, leading to three years of probation.
Family Background and Scandal: Sam Haskell III
Samuel Bond Haskell IV’s father is Sam Haskell III, the former executive vice president and worldwide head of television for the William Morris Agency. Sam Haskell III resigned as the CEO of the Miss America organization in 2017 due to an email scandal.
Insights from a Neighbor: Elle Benami
Elle Benami, a close friend and neighbor of Mei Haskell, spoke to KTLA about the couple’s dynamics. While they appeared outwardly reserved with each other, Benami expressed shock, stating that she was unaware of any major issues in their marriage. Mei was described as outgoing and social, while Samuel was more reserved and quieter.
Benami last saw Mei a week before her disappearance, driving her children to school. She emphasized Mei’s dedication to her boys, stating that they were her entire life.
Aftermath: Children Removed from School
Following the disturbing discovery, Mei and Samuel Haskell’s children have been taken out of their respective schools and are currently staying with relatives.
As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits answers to the many questions surrounding the tragic events that transpired within the Haskell family. The LAPD continues its efforts to piece together the puzzle, hoping to bring justice to Mei Haskell and shed light on the unsettling circumstances surrounding her demise.