Regina King just made her first public appearance since her adult son's tragic death. She did so on the red carpet in Santa Margherita de Pula, Italy.
The 51-year-old attended an awards ceremony during the Filming Italy Festival, and she looked simply stunning for the event. Regina, who starred in HBO's hit Watchmen, wore a beautiful sleeveless white gown with matching heels. Her braided hair was dyed orange.
Despite Regina's immense heartbreak, she looked as though she was enjoying the event.
Regina's beloved son, Ian Alexander Jr., died by suicide in January. It was just days before his 26th birthday. Ian was Regina's only child, and the two were incredibly close. The musician seemed to be his mother's biggest supporter, often attending events as her date.
"Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian," the actress said in a statement to People just after her son's death. "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."
Regina was tremendously proud of her son, a talented deejay. Ian's father, Alexander Sr., is also in the music business, working as a record producer.
His and Regina's relationship ended in divorce.
Regina and her son had a deep admiration of one another. Regina gave him shout-outs in her speeches. When she won her first Emmy in 2015 for American Crime, her son was by her side. She thanked him in her speech and called him the "best date." She also said that being his mother was her "greatest accomplishment."
She previously told People, "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," she explained at the time. "When you experience it, it's the most fulfilling [thing] ever."
Ian was also quick to make his love for his mother clear. At the 2019 Golden Globes, he opened up about his relationship with his mother, calling her "supermom." He said, "It’s really awesome to have a mother who I can enjoy spending time with."
In honor of his mom's 50th birthday last year, he gave her a beautiful shout-out on Instagram, writing, "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."
He continued, "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 s— on you, your the real superhero! Love you mom! This day and everyday YO."
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
