Houston Tumlin death: Talladega Nights child actor ‘experienced PTSD’ from army service before suicide

Former actor portrayed Will Ferrell’s son in the hit 2006 comedy

Houston Tumlin at the 2006 premiere of Talladega Nights, and the former actor in an Instagram selfie posted in February (Getty/Instagram)

Talladega Nights actor Houston Tumlin experienced post-traumatic stress disorder after serving in the US army, his mother has said.

Tumlin, who portrayed the son of Will Ferrell’s race car driver Ricky Bobby in the 2006 film, died by suicide on 23 March.

The former actor, aged 28, grew up to serve in the US army’s 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Tumlin’s mother Michelle told TMZ that her son earned accolades including an Army Achievement Metal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, but experienced PTSD and depression in the wake of his service.

“Houston Lee Tumlin was so much more than a child actor from Talladega Nights,” she said. “My beautiful boy brought joy to everyone he encountered and made them feel special. Houston fought his battle for years, and we will continue to fight for him.”

Read more:

• Talking points and theories from Line of Duty season 6, episode 2
• Jessica Simpson says she doesn’t want a public apology from John Mayer
• Kim Kardashian talks about ‘frustrating’ marriage to Kanye West in latest KUWTK episode
• Seth Rogen clarifies rumour that Emma Watson ‘stormed off’ the set of This Is the End 

Tumlin’s family marched in an Alabama event this past weekend (27 March) to raise awareness for army veteran suicide and PTSD support. A full military funeral is planned for the former actor.

Tumlin was found dead by suicide at his home in Pelham, Alabama on 23 March, and no note was found at the scene. His girlfriend was at home at the time.

Talladega Nights was Tumlin’s sole acting credit.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone free of charge over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Helpline is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.