Sebastian Kidder apparently died over the weekend, leaving his mother distraught and his renowned stepfather pondering the death of his own son more than ten years earlier.

Sebastian Kidder, a rising artist and the stepson of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) star Ric Flair, died of a claimed self-inflicted gunshot wound on Saturday, October 26, at his family’s Georgia home. Police have initiated an inquiry, but the specifics are unknown.

Wendy Barlow, Kidder’s mother and Flair’s former wife, confirmed the story to TMZ, expressing pain and worry over young men’s mental health difficulties. “I’m disappointed and startled. This is an epidemic among our young males. “And mental health…” she said.

In a subsequent Instagram post, Barlow continued her grief: “There are no words to express the pain I am feeling from the loss of my baby, @sebastianonthemic.” “Mommy loves you ❤️🙏.”

Kidder died shortly after Flair officially announced his split from Barlow on September 23, which ended their 13-year relationship. According to his announcement, they parted owing to clashing schedules and new projects.

Reflecting on their time together, Flair wished Barlow luck in her future ambitions and thanked her for her support during his “terrible health crisis” in 2017.

Flair expressed his tremendous sadness for Kidder’s death in a touching Instagram message following their recent breakup. He sympathized with Barlow and Kidder’s biological father, Paul, and recognized the tremendous agony of losing a son.

Drawing on his personal loss of his son, Reid, 11 years ago, Flair said, “I still think about Reid every day of my life, as you will continue to think about Sebastian [sic].”

In March 2013, a motel in North Carolina reportedly discovered Reid, 25, dead. The autopsy revealed that he died from a narcotics overdose.

The professional wrestler encouraged Barlow not to blame herself, saying, “Sometimes we get so close to our kids, we forget that they need us in so many different ways [sic].”

Flair expressed tremendous gratitude for his time with his stepson, valuing their friendship and memories. He loved Kidder’s constant support for his mother and his generosity to his family, especially during tough times.

Flair praised Kidder’s abilities, stating that his accomplishments and character would be his lasting legacy. Kidder made significant contributions to both acting and music prior to his death.

On June 24, Kidder went on Fox’s “Good Day Atlanta,” where he talked about growing up in an entertainment environment and the circumstances that led him to music.

Kidder told interviewer Kaitlyn Pratt that he started acting when he was 10 years old, working as a double for a young role in “The Walking Dead” series. Looking back, he regarded acting as a “stepping stone” that prepared him for the spotlight. “I fell in love with it, and here I am,” he stated.

Kidder’s love for the arts culminated last summer with the publication of his debut album, “Under the Moon.” He told Pratt about the subjects of his project: “You know, a lot of pain, a lot of suffering, a lot of crying in a corner just hoping that words come out.” He then said, “No, I’m kidding, of course.”

The artist subsequently stated that “romance” was at the heart of his record, with “a lot of sexual energy” and a sense of loss running throughout. He expressed amazement and excitement at witnessing his effort come to life, characterizing it as a “dream.”

Kidder’s stepfather enthusiastically supported him throughout his quest. Flair even hailed his stepson’s success on social media, congratulating him on the release of his debut music video, “Goth Girl at Bar.”

Kidder reflected on his upbringing with Flair, noting how different it was. “You go out for a family meal, and you’re just surrounded by fans, and you’re already exposed to that at an early age—everybody coming up, wanting pictures, autographs, stuff like that,” he told me.

He also recounted the attraction of celebrities to his house and the value he placed on the chance to interact with well-known individuals—another distinctive aspect of growing up with his stepfather.

While his family, friends, and the community grieve his passing, officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Kidder’s death.