Regina King's Emotional Reunion with Jimmy Kimmel 2 Years After Tragic Loss

Regina King Tears Up With Jimmy Kimmel Two Years After Son Suicide

Regina King and Jimmy Kimmel Getty Images; FilmMagic

Regina King made a heartfelt appearance on Jimmy Kimmel's show for the first time after the passing of her son, Ian Alexander Jr.

The 53-year-old actress was on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Thursday, March 21, to talk about her new movie, Shirley. Kimmel, 56, began their chat by checking in on how she was feeling. "I'm doing okay at the moment," King replied.

Kimmel expressed, "I'm happy to hear that." He teared up as he continued, "I know you've had a tough year."

King, with tears in his eyes, reached out and held the host's hand. He struggled to speak through his emotions, saying, "It's nice to see you, Jimmy."

In 2022, Larry King's son Ian Alexander Sr. passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 26. Ian was the son he shared with his ex-husband.

"Our family is heartbroken by the loss of Ian," King expressed in a statement to Today. Ian was a compassionate soul who always put others' happiness before his own. During this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy. Thank you for your understanding.

Regina King Tears Up With Jimmy Kimmel Two Years After Son Suicide 3

Regina King and Jimmy Kimmel Jimmy Kimmel Live/YouTube

After Ian passed away, Regina King received condolences from those closest to her as she coped with the difficult time.

Garcelle Beauvais expressed her sorrow on Twitter, saying, "My heart goes out to you @ReginaKing. Ian was such a sweet and kind person."

Bernice King, in a heartfelt message, expressed her support for Regina King, asking for grace and light to come her way during this time of need.

King's son, who was a musician, openly shared his struggles with mental health before his passing.

He tweeted in January 2022 about a SpongeBob episode where they explore SpongeBob's brain filled with mini versions of himself going crazy. It really resonated with him.

Regina King Tears Up With Jimmy Kimmel Two Years After Son Suicide Ian Alexander Jr

Ian Alexander Jr. and Regina King Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for LACMA

Ian — who performed under the moniker Desduné — also shared a close bond with his mother.

He shared a sweet Instagram tribute to King in January 2021, wishing her a happy birthday and expressing how proud and inspired he is by her love, artistry, and strength.

He continued by saying that having King as his mother is the greatest gift he could ask for. He admires her ability to balance being herself while always being there to love and support him unconditionally. He sees her as a real superhero, even comparing her to the marvel universe. He ends the tribute by declaring that every day is her day and that he loves her dearly.

Before making her return to Kimmel's show on Thursday, King opened up about her grief for the first time during an interview on Good Morning America on March 14.

During the interview, King shared, "When a parent loses a child, you still wonder, 'What could I have done so that wouldn't have happened?'" She also acknowledged that "sometimes a lot of guilt" continues to weigh on her.

She mentioned that she respects and understands his decision to leave. It may be difficult for others to accept since they did not go through the same experiences or journey as Ian did.

If you or someone you know is facing challenges or going through a crisis, remember that help is accessible. Reach out by calling or texting 988, or chatting at 988lifeline.org.

Editor's P/S:

Regina King's appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! marked a poignant moment of shared grief and resilience. Kimmel's empathy and tears reflected the collective sorrow that surrounds the loss of a child. King's raw vulnerability and strength served as a testament to the enduring bond between mother and son and the profound impact of mental health struggles on both individuals and families.

It is crucial to remember that individuals experiencing mental health challenges may communicate their distress in various ways, including through artistic expressions or social media. Ian Alexander Jr.'s openness about his struggles highlights the importance of destigmatizing mental health and fostering open conversations within families and communities. King's decision to speak out about her grieving process serves as an example of courage and the power of seeking support and connection in the face of adversity.