Nearly one year after the passing of actress Regina King’s son, Ian Alexander Jr., the Watchmen star has penned a touching tribute to her only child who died of suicide at the age of 26.
“January 19th is Ian’s Worthday. As we still process his physical absence, we celebrate his presence. We are all in different places on the planet…so is Ian,” she posted on Instagram. “His spirit is the thread that connects us. Of course orange is your favorite color…Its the fire and the calm. 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.”
Alexander was a budding musician who was in the beginning stages of dominating the music industry after releasing his latest single, Green Eyes. He was also a DJ who performed under the name Desduné.
Hundreds of fans and celebrity friends flooded the 227 star’s comments, sending condolences and heartfelt wishes.
“I’ll choose for myself next time who I’ll reach out and take as mine, in the way I might stand at a fruit stall having decided to ignore the apples, the mangoes and the kiwis,” famed director Ava DuVernay wrote in the comment section. “But hold my hands above a pile of oranges as if to warm my skin before a fire.- Roisin Kelly”
“Love you Regina. Sending you more,” wrote Justin Theroux, who added a heart emoji.
Reese Witherspoon also chimed in, writing “Always remembering Ian and his bright spirit. I love you.”
At the time of Alexander’s death, the family released a statement expressing their shock and distress over his passing.
“Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian,” King wrote in a statement 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.”
King shared her son with ex-husband Ian Alexander Sr., a Hollywood record producer.
In a former interview with PEOPLE, the 52-year-old Los Angeles star said that her son was “an amazing young man.”
We send our thoughts and condolences to King and her family during this difficult time.
