Just In: Regina King’s Only Child, Ian Alexander Jr. Dies By Suicide Two Days After 26th Birthday

Ian Alexander Jr., the only child of oscar-winning actress and director, Regina King, has died by suicide two days after his 26th birthday.

Regina King shared him with former husband, Ian Alexander Sr. She was married to the record producer for a decade beginning in 1997.

The 51-year-old actress confirmed the tragic news to PEOPLE on Friday with a statement;

Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian. 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.

King shared a very close bond with her son – an artist and DJ – who often accompanied her to events and called her ‘super mom‘ at the 2019 Golden Globes.

‘She’s just a super mom,’ he said while speaking with E! on the red carpet, adding;

She doesn’t really let bad work days or anything come back and ruin the time that we have. It’s really awesome to have a mother who I can enjoy spending time with.

The The Harder They Fall actress separated from Ian’s father in 2007, after nine years of marriage.

In 2011, Regina spoke with Essence and revealed how much she adored her only child.

She said;

I get emotional because my son is an amazing young man, and it took me to be a mother for me to realize how incredible of a woman she (my mother) is.

She went on saying;

You don’t know what unconditional love is. You may say you do, but if you don’t have a child, you don’t know what that is. But when you experience it, it is the most fulfilling ever. So, that is the greatest part about me. Being a mom to Ian.

May his soul rest in peace.