“For Ian”: Netflix’s Shirley Movie Dedication Explained

The dedication “For Ian” before the new Netflix movie Shirley is intended for someone who does not appear in the film. The historical biopic stars an outstanding ensemble cast led by Regina King and also features great performances from Lucas Hedges, Terrence Howard, Lance Reddick, and Regina’s real-life sister Reina King. The film was also produced by Regina and Reina King as well as Anikah McLaren and Oscar winning writer/director John Ridley (12 Years a Slave).

Shirley follows the true story of Shirley Chisholm, who became the first black American woman to run for President of the United States just one year after becoming the first black woman elected to Congress. Chisholm’s true story marks a landmark trailblazing effort in American politics that is documented and celebrated in Ridley’s exceptional film. Regina King gives a transformative performance as the titular character, showcasing her fierce resolve and unyielding commitment to make history and to never give up.

Shirley Is Dedicated to Regina King’s Son Ian Alexander, Jr.

The dedication at the beginning of Shirley that reads “For Ian” is not intended for anyone in the film or anyone related to the real-life Shirley Chisholm. The “Ian” mentioned at the beginning of the film is Ian Alexander, Jr., the only son and child of Regina King. Ian died by suicide in January 2022 at the age of 26. Shirley is the first feature film that King has starred in or produced since Ian’s death, which explains why the film is dedicated to his memory.

King is an Oscar and Emmy-winning actor who was recognized for her supporting role in If Beale Street Could Talk (2018) as well as in Seven Seconds (2018) and the HBO adaptation of Watchmen (2019). King is also an accomplished director, making her feature film debut with 2020’s One Night in Miami… after directing various episodes of popular television series such as Southland (2013), Scandal (2015-2016), Animal Kingdom (2016), This Is Us (2017), Shameless (2017), The Good Doctor (2018), and Insecure (2018).

Lance Reddick Is Also Honored In Shirley’s End Credits

The late Lance Reddick is also honored during the end credits of Shirley in a message that reads “In Loving Memory of Lance“. Reddick died on March 17, 2023, at the age of 60 from heart disease and made his first posthumous film appearance in John Wick: Chapter 4. Reddick portrays Wesley McDonald ‘Mac’ Holder in Shirley and has made several other posthumous appearances in film and television, including 2023’s White Men Can’t Jump and 2024’s Pecry Jackson and the Olympians. Both Reddick and Ian are honored in Regina King and John Ridley’s Shirley.