Actor Douglas Booth reveals that his father ‘tragically took his own life’ earlier this year

Actor Douglas Booth has revealed on Instagram that his father ‘tragically took his own life’ earlier this year. He shared a series of photographs of his dad and wrote: “Today would have been my dad’s 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. 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.

“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. 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.

“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.

“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.”

In response, actress Eleanor Tomlinson wrote: “♥️” whilst Lisa Frostrup wrote: “Simon was the most gentle, quietly funny man. It is truly an invisible disease. Sending love to you all.”

Another person wrote: “Sending heart felt sympathies to you and your family. Well done for opening up and encouraging others even through your own grief,” whilst another said: “My dad took his own life in September 2022 with no explanation, no warning signs, nothing. It’s an awfully difficult journey. Thank you for sharing your story, sending love ❤️.”

Douglas Booth first came to fame when he portrayed Boy George in the BBC film Worried About the Boy in 2010, he also appeared in the likes of Great Expectations and The Dirt. He met Beth Powley on the set of period drama Mary Shelley in 2017 and they married in 2023.

In November 2023, Beth Powley shared photographs from their wedding on Instagram and wrote: “The day @douglasbooth and I got married, during the most love filled ceremony, in front of all our favourite people on this earth. I have no words to describe how happy I feel. I love you @douglasbooth ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.”

One fan wrote: “One of the most beautiful wedding dresses I’ve ever seen,” whilst another said: “congratulations, so happy for you both 💘🥺.”

* If you are suffering with suicidal thoughts, you can contact The Samaritans on 116 123 for free, confidential support People with hearing problems or other communication difficulties can text 07889 036 280.