Actor Douglas Booth has said his father ‘tragically took his own life’ earlier this year.
The Sandman star, 33, paid tribute to his father on what would have been his 64th birthday.
“On the 4th May this year, my dad tragically took his own life. I’ve struggled to find the words for this loss,” he wrote, alongside family pictures, some of which included Booth’s wife Bel Powley.
“There are questions I’ll never have answers to, and I’m slowly learning to live with that. What I do know is that my dad was a gentle, kind, generous man, and he is deeply missed.”
Booth continued, saying in future he hopes to help other men with their mental health.
“In time, I want to find a way to turn this pain into something useful – to support and champion places that give men space to connect, talk, and feel understood,” he said.
“Too many men find themselves isolated, unable to express what they’re going through, or unsure of where to turn. Loneliness is a quiet epidemic. I’ve struggled with anxiety myself, and I know how frightening it can feel to be battling something internally while the world carries on around you.”
He added: “It isn’t as simple as ‘checking in’ on the people you love – sometimes they can’t hear you, even when you’re trying. And as people get older, lose the structure of work, or face changes in their identity or their bodies, the world can become even harder to navigate. My dad also struggled – with undiagnosed autism – and didn’t always have the tools to reinvent himself or ask for help.”
The post concluded: “Losing someone to suicide is a complex grief, and my heart is with anyone who has walked this path. I’m incredibly grateful for my family, my friends, and at times complete strangers who have helped me begin to get through this. Happy Birthday Dad. I love and miss you. Always.”
Many followers paid their condolences on the post, and praised Booth for opening up.
“Sending heart felt sympathies to you and your family,” one follower wrote.
“Well done for opening up and encouraging others even through your own grief.”
Another added: “This is so powerful to share this. Thank you. I can’t imagine your pain but I’ve learnt that sharing helps healing.”
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
