Regina King makes first public appearance since the tragic death of her son

Regina King
Photo credit Getty Images

Actress Regina King made a surprise showing on the red carpet over the weekend – her first public appearance since the tragic passing of her son.

Entering the Filming Italy Festival in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy, King, 51, wore an elegant white top and matching skirt.

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And as People added, the Oscar winner accessorized her chic ensemble with a pair of matching white heels and a Louis Vuitton purse. A portion of her hair tied into braids was dyed orange. King was presented with the Women Power Award at the gala.

Regina King
Regina King attends the Filming Italy 2022 red carpet on June 10, 2022 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy Photo credit Getty Images

Her son, Ian Alexander Jr., was only 26 when he died by suicide on January 21. As reported, King’s statement at the time 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.”

Alexander Jr. was her only son, whom she shared with her ex-husband, record producer Ian Alexander Sr. The two separated in 2007.

According to his Instagram page, Alexander Jr., a Los Angeles native, was a musician and DJ who performed under the stage name “desduné.” He had just released a new single, “Green Eyes,” on January 7.

In 2020, he appeared in his mother's feature film directorial debut, "One Night in Miami."

Last year, on the occasion of his mother’s birthday, Alexander went to Instagram to show his love.

"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 s— on you, your the real superhero! Love you mom! This day and everyday YO DAY!!"

King was last seen on screen in the 2021 Netflix film "The Harder They Fall."

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images