Houston Tumlin, best known as the son of Will Ferrell's character in 2006's "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby," has died by suicide. He was 28.
Shelby County Coroner Lina Evans confirmed to TMZ that Tumlin passed away Tuesday from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head at his home in Pelham, Alabama. Sources told the outlet that his girlfriend, Charity Robertson, was at the home at the time of his death.
"I feel numb, I feel defeated, I feel lost. I feel empty. My heart is absolutely shattered," Robertson wrote in a tribute posted to Facebook. "My sweet, sweet baby. Our time together was one of the best experiences of my life. I'll miss your big heart, caring spirit, infectious laughter, & oh man could the list go on."
Robertson added that, despite the loss, she had gained "the absolute best guardian angel" she could have asked for.
"I love you so much Houston Lee & thank you for loving me so passionately and unapologetically for the time we had each other," she concluded her post.
"Talladega Nights" director Adam McKay also took to social media to pay his respects.
"Truly heartbroken and stunned at Houston’s passing," he tweeted. "He was a joyful and talented person. Will never forget the laughs and good times we had. Sending love and prayers to his family and friends."
Houston's acting career was limited to one role, as Walker Bobby, the son of NASCAR driver Ricky (Ferrell). He also reportedly served in the Army's 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell.
If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for a list of additional resources.
Zoe Papadakis ✉
Zoe Papadakis is a Newsmax writer based in South Africa with two decades of experience specializing in media and entertainment. She has been in the news industry as a reporter, writer and editor for newspapers, magazine and websites.
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