Regina King Opens Up About Her Son's Passing: Coping with Unbearable Sadness

Regina King Speaks Out for the 1st Time on Her Son's Death: 'The Sadness Will Never Go Away'

Regina King. Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Two years after her son Ian Alexander Jr. passed away, Regina King opened up about her experience with grief for the first time. During an interview on Good Morning America on Thursday, March 14, the 53-year-old actress shared that as a parent who has lost a child, she often finds herself questioning if there was anything she could have done to prevent the tragedy. She also mentioned feeling a sense of guilt at times.

King remembered needing to come to terms with Ian's decision after he passed away. She expressed her understanding and respect for his choice not to continue living. This was difficult for others to accept, as they did not go through the same experiences or witness Ian's struggles.

Her son, who she had with her ex-husband Ian Alexander Sr., tragically took his own life at the age of 26 in January 2022. He was King's only child.

Our family is heartbroken over the passing of Ian,” King shared in a statement to Today. “He was a shining light who always put others' happiness first. We kindly request privacy as we grieve. Thank you.

Regina King Speaks Out for the 1st Time on Her Son's Death- 'The Sadness Will Never Go Away'

Ian shared his mental health struggles before he passed away. In a message through X, he referenced a SpongeBob episode to describe how he felt overwhelmed. He also mentioned that using Instagram was not good for his mental well-being.

King initially felt angry with God after Ian's death, but now she focuses on honoring his legacy. She believes it is crucial to remember Ian for the person he was - she always speaks about him in the present tense because she feels his presence with her, bringing joy and happiness to everyone.

Being Ian's mother is King's most cherished role.

“I can’t help but smile, shed tears, and feel all the emotions that come with it if I don’t honor the journey,” she shared. She then opened up about how she senses her son’s presence in a physical way. “Sometimes it brings out laughter — lately, it mostly brings a smile. But there are times when his absence is deafening.”

Reflecting on her experience, King acknowledged that she has been transformed by it. “I understand that I am not alone in my grief, but no one else can fill the role of Ian’s mother. That is solely mine. Therefore, the sorrow is mine to carry, and it will always linger. I read somewhere, ‘Sadness serves as a reminder of how much he meant to me,’ you know? It’s a bittersweet feeling.”

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Editor's P/S:

Regina King's profound words about her grief journey as a mother who has lost a child resonated deeply with me. Her honesty in admitting her struggles with guilt and questioning her actions is a testament to the immense pain and confusion that accompanies such a loss. Her perspective on honoring her son's memory by focusing on his life and legacy rather than dwelling on her own sorrow offers a powerful reminder of the importance of finding meaning in the midst of darkness.

King's experience highlights the complexities of grief and the unique challenges faced by parents who have lost a child. The realization that no one else can fully understand the depth of her loss and that she alone must carry the sorrow is a poignant reminder of the isolating nature of this experience. Her words serve as a poignant tribute to her son and a source of comfort and solidarity for others who have endured similar tragedies. are struggling. By sharing her story, Regina King not only honors her son but also provides a beacon of hope for others who may be grappling with the complexities of grief.