Actress and former talk show host Ricki Lake tells People magazine that ex-husband Christian Evans died as a result of suicide on February 11th. Last month, Lake revealed the jewelry designer passed away after a long battle with bipolar disorder, but gave no further details. In the latest issue of People, Lake revealed that while working in London, she received a text from Evans' sister stating that he had emailed a suicide note. The "Hairspray" star said she immediately knew he was gone, adding that the struggle was just too much for him. Christian Evans' body was found two days later inside his car.
He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
After dating since September 2010, Ricki Lake married Christian Evans in April 2012. She described him as a person who was funny and charismatic and someone who made feel as though she was the luckiest girl in the world. She states that they never argued or fought and he was upfront about his condition from the beginning. In September 2014, Lake witnessed one of Evans' manic episodes for the first time. During the height of his mania, she said he thought things like he could fly or cure cancer with his hands. He was a different person from the one she had been with for four years.
Through thick and thin
A month after following her therapist's advice to end all contact with Evans until he stabilized, Lake filed for a divorce, which was finalized in 2015.
Evans entered a treatment facility following his hospitalization under a 5150 hold. After his release, the pair moved back in together despite being divorced. Lake stated even though her ex-husband was not stable, she was still in love with him and wanted to save him.
The tragic tale of mental health challenges and suicide
Ricki Lake told People that she must spread the word about the importance of recognizing and receiving treatment for bipolar disorder.
She also revealed that Evans never wanted to be labeled as bipolar but for him to admit it in his note was giving her permission to tell his story. She plans to scatter some of his ashes on their favorite beach in Ibiza. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255 and is open 24 hours a day. For help with bipolar disorder, visit the National Institute of Mental Health online or call at 1-800-662-help (4357).
