Ric Flair's Stepson, Rising Musician Sebastian Kidder, Dies by Suicide at 24
Sebastian Kidder, stepson of wrestling legend Ric Flair, has died by suicide.
He was 24.
The young musician's tragic death was confirmed by his mother Wendy Barlow.
Barlow told 'TMZ Sports: "I am devastated and shocked. This is an epidemic with our young men. And mental health..." Barlow expressed the immense pain felt by the family and highlighted the need to address mental health struggles.
Kidder's life ended on Saturday, October 26, after he suffered a gunshot wound at the family's home in Georgia. Local authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, though details remain unclear at this time.
In recent months, Kidder's music career was starting to gain momentum. Over the summer, he appeared on FOX's 'Good Day Atlanta,' where he performed one of his songs and spoke with enthusiasm about releasing his debut album. He was beginning to make a name for himself in the music industry, and fans were looking forward to seeing where his talent would take him.
Ric Flair, who has been a part of Sebastian's life for nearly fifteen years, commented on his stepson's passing in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday, October 28.
"Have Spent Hours Wondering What To Say. After Hearing The News Of Sebastian's Passing, I Can Only Imagine What Wendy @thewonderouswendy & Paul Are Going Through Having Lost A Son Approximately The Same Age In 2013. I Know The Pain Of Your Loss Will Be With You The Rest Of Your Life. I Still Every Day Of My Life Think About Reid As You Will Continue To Think About Sebastian," he wrote in the post's caption. "You Can't Blame Yourselves As I Blamed Myself For Making Reid My Best Friend Instead Of Being A Good Parent. Sometimes We Get So Close To Our Kids, We Forget That They Need Us In So Many Different Ways. I'm So Thankful For The Time I Had With Sebastian."
He added: "I Have So Many Great Memories & Bonding Time With Him As He Grew Up! He Stood Tall By His Mother Along With The Whole Family- Sophia, Paris, And Summer, While I Was Dying. He Was So Unselfish Sharing His Mother With Me As I Was Dying."
Flair and Barlow began dating long before they tied the knot in 2018, and Flair had formed a close bond with Sebastian during that time.
As the family grieves this tragic loss, friends, fans, and colleagues continue to pay tribute to Sebastian's memory and his promising musical journey.
Ric Flair, often referred to as "The Nature Boy," is one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history, known for his flamboyant persona, charismatic catchphrases, and a career that spans over four decades. He became a household name in the wrestling world through his numerous championship victories and unforgettable rivalries in organizations like the NWA, WCW, and WWE. Flair's impact on the sport has been monumental, with 16 recognized world titles and a legacy that has influenced countless wrestlers. His life outside the ring, however, has been equally tumultuous, marked by personal hardships, health battles, and family tragedies.