Regina King posts touching tribute to late son: I’m ‘still’ processing his death

Regina King says she’s “still” processing her son Ian Alexander Jr.’s death nearly one year later.

The actress posted an Instagram video of an orange sky lantern drifting through the air on Friday, marking her first social media upload since the 26-year-old’s suicide in January 2022.

“January 19th is Ian’s Worthday,” King, 52, wrote, referencing what would have been her son’s 27th birthday. “As we still process his physical absence, we celebrate his presence.

“We are all in different places on the planet…so is Ian. His spirit is the thread that connects us. Of course orange is your favorite color…Its the fire and the calm.”

The Oscar winner concluded, “I see you in everything I breath. My absolute favorite thing about myself is being ….Regina the mother of Ian the GodKing. Continue to shine bright, my guiding light. 🧡🧡🧡.”

When Ian died last year, just two days after his birthday, King released a statement asking for “respectful consideration” from the public.

“Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian,” she said at the time. “He is such a bright light who cared so deeply about the happiness of others.”

Later that same month, “surrounded by love.”

Fox, 58, added, “She said to tell everybody that she’s gotten y’all texts. The outpouring of love for her, her family and her son … she appreciates it.”

King welcomed her son in 1996 with Ian Alexander Sr. The former couple were married from 1997 to 2007.

If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.