Who was Ian Alexander Jr? Regina King's only son dies by suicide at 26
Ian Alexander Jr, the son of recording artist Ian Alexander Sr (who was also the former Vice President of Warner Bros). and actress and director, Regina King, has died by suicide. He had turned 26 on Wednesday, January 19.
LoveBScott was the first person to report the devastating news of Ian's death. King has previously told PEOPLE that Ian was "an amazing young man". The family is greatly shaken by the news of his sad demise.
RELATED ARTICLES
Who was Ian Alexander Jr?
Alexander Jr. was King's only child, one whom she shared with her ex-husband. He was a DJ by profession, following in the footsteps of his father's musical journey. In a statement sent to PEOPLE, King says, "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".
Although Regina was constantly growing as both a successful actress and director, her biggest source of pride was her son at all times. After separating from Ian Alexander Sr in 2007, after nine years of marriage, Regina admitted that being a single parent isn't a bed full of roses, but also added that nothing comes close to how strongly she loves her son. At the time, she said, "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. When you experience it, it's the most fulfilling [thing] ever".
To honor his mother's 50th birthday in 2021, Ian took to Instagram, saying: "Happy birthday to my co, so extremely proud of you and inspired by your love, artistry, and gangsta! To be able to watch you take this lifetime by its neck and make it yours is something I will forever be grateful for. But to have you as my mother is the greatest gift I could ask for. To be all that you are while always having the time to be there, love, and support me unconditionally is truly remarkable. The whole marvel universe ain't got shit on you, your the real superhero! Love you mom! This day and everyday YO DAY!!".
The mother and son duo also have matching tattoos, which reads "unconditional love" in Aramaic. Ian's is his on his shoulder and Regina has hers on her arm.
Ian has also been spotted at several red carpet events accompanying his mother, including in 2019 when he called her "super mom" while they attended the Golden Globes.
Ian even told E! News, "She's just a super mom. 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".
During this time, Regina also said that Ian made her "happier than anything in the whole world".