Ian Alexander Jr., the only son of renowned actress Regina King, has died by suicide.
King confirmed the tragic news in a statement to People on Friday.
“Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian,” the statement read. “He is such a bright light who cared so deeply about the happiness of others. Our family asks for respectful consideration during this private time. Thank you.”
Ian’s 26th birthday was just this Wednesday. He was King’s only child with her record producer ex-husband, Ian Alexander Sr.
Ian, who was a DJ and musician who performed under the nam Desdune, was “an amazing young man,” King, 51, previously told the magazine.
“You don’t know what unconditional love is, she reportedly said of her son in 2007. “You may say you do, but if you don’t have a child, you don’t know what that is,” she explained at the time. “When you experience it, it’s the most fulfilling [thing] ever.”
King and her late son shared matching tattoos reading “unconditional love” in Aramaic, according to the report.
The Oscar-winner has been met with condolences from both fans and her Hollywood peers in the wake of the tragic news.
Comedian D.L. Hughley tweeted, “so very sorry!!! Prayers Prayers Prayers!!!!!!
Regina King’s Son Ian Alexander Jr. Dies by Suicide: He ‘Cared So Deeply’ https://t.co/ErxLJTJG0P so very sorry!!! Prayers Prayers Prayers!!!!!!
— DL Hughley (@RealDLHughley) January 22, 2022
Sherri Shepherd offered her support to King and also shared a video of Ian cooking his famous polenta.
“Regina there are no words as you try to comprehend but please know my Sister, we are surrounding you in love & prayer. Your tears are ours too. Love you so much,” she wrote.
View this post on Instagram
Musician Kid Cudi also tweeted well wishes, writing, “My heart hurts for Regina King and her family. God please watch over them.”
My heart hurts for Regina King and her family. God please watch over them.
— The Chosen One : I
YOU FRESHIE 4EVER (@KidCudi) January 22, 2022
The post Regina King’s Son Ian Alexander Jr. Dead By Suicide appeared first on HipHollywood.
