‘Continue to shine bright, my guiding light,’ the actor wrote (Picture: Danny Moloshok/Invision/AP Images)
Regina King has paid heartfelt tribute to her late son Ian Alexander Jr, a year after he tragically died at the age of 26.
Sharing a post on Instagram, the Oscar-winning actor explained that January 19 was Ian’s ‘Worthday’, as she and her loved ones celebrated ‘his presence’ following his death.
The date of her post marked what would have been his 27th birthday, two days before the anniversary of his death on January 21.
The Watchmen star posted a video of an orange lantern floating in the air, having also made her profile picture on Instagram an orange circle.
‘January 19th is Ian’s Worthday. As we still process his physical absence, we celebrate his presence,’ the 52-year-old wrote in her caption.
‘We are all in different places on the planet…so is Ian. His spirit is the thread that connects us.’
Regina explained that orange was Ian’s favourite colour, with the shade representing ‘fire and 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,’ she concluded.
Regina shared her son with her ex-husband Ian Alexander, who she was married to from 1997 to 2007.
Underneath her Instagram post, several people sent the If Beale Street Could Talk actor messages of support.
Regina shared her son with her ex-husband Ian Sr (Picture: RJ Capak/WireImage)
‘I love you,’ wrote Sarah Paulson, while Tracee Ellis Ross commented with a row of orange heart emojis.
‘We still celebrate your forever presence Ian. I love you forever 🧡🧡🧡,’ said Taraji P Henson, as Busy Phillipps added: ‘Sending you love love love🧡.’
When it was confirmed that Ian had died, Regina shared a statement with People that read: ‘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.’
Ian had followed in his dad’s footsteps by embarking on a career in the music industry, working as a DJ and recording artist.
Regina previously spoke about the strong connection she had with her son, stating: ‘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.
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‘Continue to shine bright, my guiding light,’ the actor wrote.
