Sad News: Gayle King Makes a Heartbreaking Confession About Her Son, Will Bumpus Jr.

Gayle King, the renowned journalist and co-host of *CBS This Morning*, recently shared a deeply emotional and personal concern about her son, Will Bumpus Jr., amidst growing racial tensions and police violence in the United States.

Her heartfelt confession sheds light on the fears many Black parents face daily for the safety of their children.

Gayle King Says She Worries About Her 33-Year-Old Son's Safety

On June 3rd, during an appearance on *The Talk*, Gayle King opened up about her constant worry for her 33-year-old son. She explained that being a Black man in America comes with unique challenges and dangers, even in everyday activities.

“My son is 33 years old, and I’m worried about him,” King said. “I’m worried about him walking his freakin’ dog. I worry for him being a Black man, period.”

King revealed how her fears have escalated due to the current climate of racial unrest and police brutality, which has sparked protests across the nation.

She shared that she has even asked her son to limit his time outdoors, saying, “Please don’t walk Scott [his dog]. Please don’t take him for long walks. Everything is so volatile right now.”

Will Bumpus Jr. lives in Santa Monica, California, an affluent area of Los Angeles. Despite the relative safety of his neighborhood, King expressed her concerns about the increased police activity and protests in the area.

Gayle King's son Will Bumpus Jr. engaged, Oprah captures proposal

“He can hear the police choppers and the sounds of the city,” King explained. “Santa Monica is a very affluent town, but I’m still worried for him just walking his freakin’ dog. I worry for him being a Black man, period.”

King’s confession highlights the reality of being Black in America, where systemic racism and police violence continue to pose threats to the safety and well-being of Black individuals.

Her fears are not unique; they resonate with countless Black parents who worry about their children’s safety in a society where racial profiling and violence are all too common.

“Welcome to being Black in America,” King said somberly. “This is not new.” She also reflected on how the current racial climate has sparked conversations among people of different races.

Who is Gayle King's ex-husband, William Bumpus – who called his ex's Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover his 'teenage fantasy'? The low-key lawyer was married to Oprah Winfrey's BFF from 1982 to 1993 |

“I find it interesting how white people are processing this and how Black people are processing it,” she said. “Because it’s not just a Black and white issue—it should be a human issue. This is about humanity.”

King’s candid remarks serve as a powerful reminder of the emotional toll systemic racism takes on families. Her vulnerability in sharing her fears underscores the urgent need for change, not only in policing practices but also in addressing the deeply rooted racial inequalities that persist in society.

As protests and calls for justice continue to grow, King’s story amplifies the voices of countless Black parents who live with the constant worry for their children’s safety. It’s a poignant reminder of the work that still needs to be done to create a society where everyone can feel safe, regardless of their race.