The wrestling icon, Ric Flair, has suffered an immeasurable loss with the tragic passing of his stepson, Sebastian Kidder, at just 24 years old. On Sunday, October 27th, Flair's former partner and Kidder's mother, Wendy Barlow, confirmed to TMZ that her promising musician son had taken his own life on October 26th.
"I am utterly heartbroken and in disbelief," Barlow revealed to the outlet. "This is a pervasive issue among young men concerning mental health."
TMZ reported that Kidder had passed away from a gunshot wound on Saturday afternoon at the family's residence in Georgia. The police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, the outlet added.
Just hours before his demise, Kidder posted his final message on social media. On Instagram, he shared a series of photos depicting him holding a guitar in what appeared to be a vibrant recording studio, illuminated by a purple glow.
Flair, a 75-year-old former WWE legend who shared a relationship with Barlow for over a decade before their September separation, has yet to publicly address his stepson's passing.
Kidder, a talented musician and actor, released his debut album titled 'Under The Moon' under the moniker Sebastian. He had ventured into various TV and film projects throughout his career, including independent movies and a guest appearance on 'The Walking Dead' as a child.
In an interview with Good Day Atlanta in June, Kidder expressed his inspiration drawn from Aerosmith, Maroon 5, and Michael Jackson before embarking on his musical journey.
"I fell deeply in love with it, and here I am today," he passionately stated about his artistic pursuits. "I believe it boils down to a unique work ethic... You must possess that unwavering drive. Unfortunately, this must be your sole aim. You have to relinquish everything else and immerse yourself in this world entirely."
Flair and Barlow had been vocal about their unwavering support for Kidder. When his debut music video was released in June, the WWE alumnus eagerly shared a clip on Instagram, expressing his excitement for the new album.
"Congratulations @sebastianonthemic on the release of your first music video," Flair wrote at that time.
Similarly, Barlow posted a heartfelt message on Instagram on Kidder's 24th birthday in July, urging everyone to listen to her son's music.
"I hope everyone will give the gift of listening to my son @sebastianonthemic's music on his birthday," she wrote in part. "I am incredibly proud of him for pursuing his dreams. It's never easy to open yourself up to the world."
Barlow is also the mother to three daughters, while Flair and his ex-wife Leslie Goodman are the parents of son David and daughter Megan. Flair also shares a daughter, Charlotte, with his ex-wife Elizabeth Harrell. Tragically, Flair and Harrell lost their son Reid in 2013.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please reach out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, texting "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visiting 988lifeline.org for immediate assistance.
