Sebastian Kidder, the stepson of wrestling legend Ric Flair, has tragically passed away at the age of 24. Wendy Barlow, Kidder’s mother and Flair’s ex-partner, confirmed to TMZ on Sunday, October 27, that her son, who was an emerging musician, died by suicide on October 26.
“I am devastated and shocked,” Barlow expressed to the publication. “This is an epidemic with your young men and mental health.” According to TMZ, Kidder succumbed to a gunshot wound at the family’s home in Georgia on Saturday afternoon. The police are currently investigating the incident.
Ric Flair Mourns the Death of His Stepson Sebastian Kidder
Just before his death, Kidder made his last post on social media. In a series of photos shared on Instagram, he was seen holding a guitar in what appeared to be a recording studio, illuminated by purple lighting.
Flair, 75, has not publicly addressed his stepson’s passing yet. He and Barlow were in a relationship for over 13 years before their split in September. An accomplished musician and actor, Kidder released his debut album, Under The Moon, under the name Sebastian.
He had also appeared in various television and film projects throughout the years, including independent films and a guest appearance as a child on The Walking Dead.
In a June interview with Good Day Atlanta, Kidder spoke about his inspirations, citing Aerosmith, Maroon 5, and Michael Jackson as influences before he started writing his own music.
“I fell in love with it, and here I am,” he remarked about his artistic journey. “I think it comes down to a unique work ethic… You have to really have that drive. I hate to say it, but this has gotta be your one aim. You have to let go of everything else and make this your whole world.”
Both Flair and Barlow were openly supportive of Kidder’s music career. When Kidder released his debut music video in June, Flair shared a clip on Instagram, expressing his excitement for the new album. “Congratulations @sebastianonthemic On The Release Of Your First Music Video,” the wrestling star wrote at the time.
Barlow echoed similar sentiments on Kidder’s 24th birthday in July, posting a heartfelt message on Instagram: “I hope everyone will give the gift of listening to my son @sebastianonthemic music on his Birthday 😊.”
“I am so proud of him following his dreams,” she continued, acknowledging the challenges of sharing one’s art with the world. In addition to Kidder, Barlow has three daughters, while Flair shares children David and Megan with his ex-wife Leslie Goodman. Flair also has a daughter, Charlotte, with ex-wife Elizabeth Harrell and had a late son, Reid, who passed away in 2013.
