According to reports, the son of actress and director Regina King passed away from suicide. Ian Alexander, Jr. was King’s only child and was 26 when he took his own life. His death points to an alarming rise in suicide rates in the black community.
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The award-winning actress provided a statement to People magazine saying, “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.”
Ian was Regina’s “pride and joy” and the only offspring of her marriage to her record producer ex-husband, Ian Alexander Sr. The news was first reported by LoveBScott on Friday, January 26th.
A Rising Star In Music
Ian, going by his stage name Desduné, was an upcoming DJ and musician who recently dropped a song titled “Green Eyes” on multiple platforms on January 7th. He had plans to travel and perform later this month in LA.
Suicide Rising Among Black Adolescents
Several recent studies have revealed emerging evidence that in the past 20 years, self-reported suicide attempts rose nearly 80 percent among Black adolescents.
Recently, rapper Kevin Gates shared that he had planned to commit suicide before a fan intervened.
When asked about what drove him to suicidal thoughts, Kevin said he wasn’t happy and was facing too much pressure as “a provider.” He also said that he felt like he was being “tolerated” instead of being “celebrated” by his peers.
Suicide Prevention Helpline
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
Additional reporting by Tiffany Mason-Stewart.