Sheryl Underwood, the co-host of The Talk, participated in the live Netflix roast of comedian Kevin Hart. The event featured jokes about her late husband, Michael Sparkman, raising awareness about mental health issues and suicide.
Michael Sparkman: A Tragic Story
Michael Sparkman, a chef, was married to Sheryl Underwood in 1987. Sadly, he died by suicide in August 1990, after a long struggle with severe depression. Their marriage faced many challenges due to his mental health issues.
Underwood’s Memories
In 2016, Underwood shared emotional memories of Sparkman during a conversation with PEOPLE. She recalled the last interaction before his tragic death, which she described as the most painful moment of her life. Underwood made him a German chocolate cake that day, and their final exchange became a haunting memory.
A Deeper Conversation About Suicide
Following the death of designer Kate Spade, Underwood reflected on her own loss during an episode of The Talk. The conversation delved into the complexities of mental health, clinical depression, and the stigma surrounding such struggles.
- Sheryl Underwood expressed profound grief, stating, “You’ll never know” what leads someone to this point.
- She emphasized the ongoing pain surviving family members endure after a loved one’s suicide.
The Impact of Suicide Notes
During the same discussion, Underwood addressed the emotional weight of suicide notes, sharing that her husband had left one behind. She explained how such notes can leave a lasting impact on those left behind, adding to their heartache.
Underwood concluded her reflections by advocating for support within grieving families, highlighting how important it is to come together for the loved ones left behind.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
