Regina King Returns To Social Media With A Birthday Tribute to Her Late Son, Ian Alexander Jr. [Video]

Actress Regina King celebrates her late son’s birthday with a heartwarming tribute.

On Thursday evening, the 52-year-old actress posted a touching tribute to highlight her son, Ian Alexander Jr., one year after his suicide death. King shared a video to Instagram of an orange sky lantern floating away into the sky to mark what would’ve been his 27th birthday.

“January 19th is Ian’s Worthday. As we still process his physical absence, we celebrate his presence,” King wrote. “We are all in different places on the planet … so is Ian. His spirit is the thread that connects us.”

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A post shared by Regina King (@iamreginaking)

She continued, “Of course orange is your favorite color. It’s the fire and the calm. I see you in everything I breathe. My absolute favorite thing about myself is being …. Regina the mother of Ian the GodKing. Continue to shine bright, my guiding light.”

Ian’s tribute post signifies the first time King has posted on her Instagram account since his death. Ian passed away on January 20, 2022, just one day following his 26th birthday.

During the time of his death, King spoke with PEOPLE 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. Thank you.”

Ian was King’s only child with whom she shared with ex-husband Ian Alexander Sr. The two were married for nine years before separating in 2007.