Ian Thorpe has finally broken his silence two weeks after his ex-boyfriend Ryan Channing passed away.
The 32-year-old was battling several health issues while on holiday at Bali and was rushed to hospital after fainting from an overdose of prescription medication.
Doctors were unsuccessful in reviving Channing, who died on May 8 at Bali’s BIMC Hospital.
The skincare entrepreneur was Thorpe’s first boyfriend after he came out back in 2015 – and he has since spoken about his tragic death.
“This is a relationship that I had that was a long-term relationship and I feel for Ryan’s family,” Thorpe told The Daily Telegraph.
“I hope people are able to respect their privacy as well. I think when it is someone that is so young, it is tragic for anyone to see them passing at that kind of age.”
The pair were in an on-off relationship for about four years and were also engaged at one point before breaking it off completely in 2019.
Channing’s mother Joy spent the last two days next to her son in hospital and issued a statement thanking everyone for their support.
“Thank you to everyone for the overwhelming love and support you have shown to us through this tragic time in our lives,” she wrote on Instagram.
“We are still in Bali but hope to be able to home (sic) soon.”
Channing’s skincare company The Blaq Group also issued a statement at the time of his death remembering him for his “fun spirit”.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that The Blaq Group founder, Ryan Channing, has passed away at the age of 32,” the tribute began.
“Ryan had been battling with health issues over the past few months and died in hospital after being taken suddenly ill on Sunday May 8th whilst on holidays in Bali.”
“His inspiration led to the creation of highly regarded skincare brands, Flight Mode and Generation Skin as well as the flagship brand Blaq which strives to empower equality through its distinctive messages of acceptance and inclusivity.
“His fun and loving spirit will be missed by all.
“Rest In Peace, Ryan Channing.
“August 31st 1989 – May 8th 2022.”
Images: Instagram
This article first appeared on OverSixty.