PEOPLE magazine has confirmed that Regina King‘s son Ian Alexander Jr. has died by suicide on the week of his birthday.
“Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian,” King says in a statement sent to PEOPLE. “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.”
A guest with Hollywood Confidential in 2017, King stated “I love my son Ian, and I also really LIKE him as well. Raising him as been my highest honor.” He was King’s only child, whom she shared with her ex-husband, record producer Ian Alexander Sr.
We are sending all of our love, thoughts, and prayers to Regina as her heart heals from this tragic loss.