During her first interview since her son’s passing, actor and director Regina King expressed that she has undergone a significant transformation following his suicide.
King expressed to Robin Roberts on Good Morning America that grief is a voyage, and it is equivalent to love with nowhere to go. It is essential for her to recognize Ian in his entirety to pay tribute to him.
The son of King, Ian Alexander Jr, passed away in January 2022 at the age of 26. He was a talented musician and DJ who frequently joined his mother at her red carpet appearances.
“When discussing depression, there is often a certain image that people expect it to embody. Many also associate it with weight or intensity,” shared King, tears brimming in her eyes. “It’s difficult to not have the luxury of time to process Ian’s decision, which I respect and understand as his choice to no longer be here. This can be hard for others to comprehend because they haven’t lived through our struggles.”
Roberts informed King that numerous individuals will be grateful that you acknowledged it as his decision and that you understand this.
The actor from If Beale Street Could Talk expressed feelings of anger towards God.
She questioned why Ian was given the responsibility. Despite the various attempts at therapy, psychiatry, and programs, he simply expressed his exhaustion with discussing things, according to his mother.
King expressed that her favorite aspect of who she is comes from being the mother of her son, Ian. She believes that she wouldn’t be able to say it with such joy and sentiment if she didn’t appreciate the journey that led her to this role.
King expressed that she frequently experiences guilt, a common feeling for parents who have lost a child.
She expressed lingering thoughts on what she could have possibly done to prevent the unfortunate outcome. While she acknowledges that others share the same grief, she recognizes that only she holds the title of Ian’s mother. The sorrow is hers to bear, and it will never fully dissipate but remain a permanent presence.
King stated that the feeling of sadness serves as a poignant reminder of the significance his loved one holds in his life.
Regina King has dedicated her soon-to-be-released biography film about Shirley Chisholm to her son. In the movie, King portrays Chisholm, who was the first African American woman to be elected to the United States Congress. King not only acts in the film, but also serves as one of its producers.
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In the United States, you have the option to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 988, using the chat feature on 988lifeline.org, or by texting HOME to 741741 to speak with a counselor during a crisis. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the organization Samaritans can be reached by calling 116 123 for free, emailing [email protected] or [email protected]. In Australia, Lifeline provides crisis support and can be contacted at 13 11 14. For a list of other international helplines, you can visit befrienders.org.
Source: theguardian.com
