Regina King bravely shares her heart-wrenching journey after her son Ian’s devastating decision to take his own life. In a raw and emotional interview on “Good Morning America,” the actress and director opened up about her profound respect for his choice while navigating her own painful experience with grief.
During her interview, she understood grief as “love without anywhere to go.” Additionally, she celebrated Ian for the incredible person he was. She even uses the present tense because she feels his presence constantly by her side.
King admits she hasn’t had the opportunity to fully come to terms with Ian’s decision to end his life. Yet, she displays an empathetic understanding, acknowledging his profound struggle and recognizing his desire to find peace elsewhere.
Reflecting on her cherished role as Ian’s mother, King reveals that it was her favorite part of herself. Despite grappling with the inevitable questions and uncertainties that follow such a loss, she remains committed to respecting Ian’s journey while contemplating her role as a parent.
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Heartbreak and Healing
Ian Alexander Jr., the son of Regina King and her ex-husband Ian Alexander Sr., tragically took his own life on his 26th birthday in January 2022. In the wake of this devastating loss, Regina King shared her family’s profound grief.
She described Ian as a radiant soul who prioritized the happiness of others above all else. In a statement, she appealed for privacy during their mourning, emphasizing the need for respectful consideration during this intensely private period.
A Bond Beyond the Red Carpet
Ian was a regular guest of King on the red carpet. From endearing moments like Ian affectionately dubbing her a “Super Mom” on the 2019 Golden Globes red carpet to heartfelt tributes on special occasions like her 50th birthday in 2021, their bond was undeniable.
As Regina King bravely takes the next steps in her journey, Ian’s spirit remains intertwined with her every move. Though he may no longer walk the red carpets by her side, his memory inspires and uplifts her as she forges ahead, carrying his love and light with her every step.
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Guilt and Understanding
In a sit-down interview with Robin Roberts, which aired on “Good Morning America,” King admitted that “sometimes a lot of guilt comes over” her to this day. “When a parent loses a child, you still wonder, ‘What could I have done so that wouldn’t have happened?'” she said.
She further revealed that she gave herself the space to contemplate Ian’s decision, ultimately coming to a place of acceptance and understanding. She acknowledged the difficulty others may have in understanding their choice, recognizing that each individual’s journey is unique and deeply personal.
An Ongoing Tribute
“It’s important to me to honor Ian the totality of who he is. I speak about him in the present because he is always with me. And the joy and happiness that he gave us all,” she said.
Addressing the misconception surrounding depression, the Oscar winner said, “People expect it to look a certain way, and they expect it to look heavy,” but noted that isn’t always the case. Regardless, King informed Roberts that after Ian’s passing, she “was so angry with God” at first. Then she asked, “Why would that weight be given to Ian?”
“Of all the things that we had gone through with therapy, psychiatrists, and programs, and Ian was like, ‘I’m tired of talking, Mom,'” she said.
Ian’s Legacy
Reflecting on the bond she shared with her son, King says that “being Ian’s mom” remains her “favorite thing about” herself. With a mixture of tears and smiles, she acknowledges that it’s only through honoring Ian’s journey that she can truly embrace the joy of motherhood.
King revealed she is “a different person now” than before Ian’s passing. Moreover, she now understands that “grief is a journey” and “love that has no place to go.” In the same interview with Roberts, she said, “I know that I share this grief with everyone, but no one else is Ian’s mom. Only me. And so it’s mine, and the sadness will never go away. It’ll always be with me.”
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