Regina King talks for the 1st time after the death of her son

And it is the perfect song for this next conversation here. We're back with that very powerful conversation with actress Virginia King, the first time that she's addressing in-depth the tragic death of her 26-year-old son, Ian, back in 2022. And Regina opening up in an exclusive interview with our Robin Roberts on her return to the screen in the new movie, Shirley, about Shirley Chisholm's historic run for president and how she's healing after such an unimaginable loss. For nearly 40 years, she's reigned as one of Hollywood's most versatile talents. That plane does not take off unless we're both on it. Got it? From her breakout role in the 80s sitcom, 227. Are you crazy? To her Oscar-winning performance in If Beale Street Could Talk. Do you think I came here to make you suffer? Regina King is known for humanizing complex characters. If I can't get the nomination, I can still get delegates. Including her latest role starring in the biopic, Shirley. How did you prepare to play Shirley Chisholm? It's been a 15-year journey since we were going to tell Shirley's story to now it actually happening. And I think 15 years ago, I wasn't ready to play Shirley. Regina's joined by her sister, Raina, who co-produces and plays a key role in the film that chronicles Shirley Chisholm's political rise in 1972 as she becomes the first black woman to run for president. There were so many people who did not know who Shirley Chisholm is. That bugged us. When you set out to do something that no one else has done before, that's a lonely road to travel. And it just so happens to be an election year. Yeah. We were like, no, it needs to live and be in the space now so that if it's going to inspire anyone, especially young people to be involved with the political process, then we've done something right. And we've also honored Shirley. And we've followed through with what Shirley has unbought and unbossed. Over the last couple of years, Regina has been taking much-needed time away. In January of 2022, her dear son Ian tragically passing away by suicide. You dedicated the film to your beloved Ian, your son. Yeah, to my Ian. What has this time span, these last two years, been like for you, Regina? Oh, wow. Grief is a journey. You know, I understand that grief is love that has no place to go because he is always with me. And the joy and happiness that he gave all of us. It's okay. To have to experience this and not be able to have the time to just sit with Ian's choice, which I respect and understand, you know, that he didn't want to be here anymore. And that's a hard thing for other people to receive because they did not live our experience, did not live Ian's journey. I think a lot of people, a lot of people, are going to appreciate that you said it was his choice and that you recognize that. You said something that Shirley Chisholm, what are the two words unbought and unbossed? So what are two words for your motto to get? What would be your two words? Hmm. I don't know that I can. Two words. I have two words for you. Do you? Ian's mom. That's the first thought that came to my mind. I know you. That's the first thought that came to my mind. But I was like, okay, let me come up with something more profound. That's what I was trying to. But that was the first thought that came to my mind. That's all right. Ian's mom. Yeah, and forever that. Ian's mom. Yeah, and if you, of course, or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, free confidential help always available for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text the National Lifeline at 988. Thank you for watching, and we'll see you in the morning on GMA.