Mack Wilds On Fatherhood and Mental Health | They Call Me Dad | OWN

Mack Wilds talks about meeting his wife Christina, as a teenager and their journeys through marriage, parenthood, and mental health. “We knew if we would have gotten married to anybody else, we would have been settling.” Check out OWN Spotlight: They Call Me Dad tonight at 9pm PST, and if you miss it, catch up on the Watch OWN app: bit.ly/2hr1nX2
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Mack Wilds On Raising A Daughter and Battling Suicidal Thoughts | OWN Spotlight | OWN
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[@DMusicLove0910]

The way he described raising his daughter and values he wants to instill in her. That's the type of man I want to have children with and hopefully we can have more forward thinking black father's of a new generation like him.

[@karenmcgee1869]

Amen! I definitely desire it too.

[@kierarose9617]

Yess same here!!

[@astaciamckinnis3969]

Hallelujah ✊

[@oxoPCetoxo]

He asked the ALMIGHTY for a light and God replied with a Blessing that is his family . God is good ALL THE TIME and ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD

[@kierarose9617]

@@oxoPCetoxo yes he is!!

[@MsCDante]

His daughter and wife are so beautiful and so is his heart.

[@thinktank9323]

A BEAUTIFUL African-American FAMILY. 🇺🇸

[@tondaniraluswinga2590]

It's so beautiful to watch.

[@dominqueb10]

@Malibu Barbie they said what they said

[@SuccessMelody]

@Malibu Barbie stay mad

[@CWTGD]

Black family

[@prettygirl_me4699]

Glad they got married knowing that you don’t need an outlandish proposal or big wedding to prove your love. I pray for them love, health and prosperity 💕

[@iamjesse9398]

sitting here crying 😢 the world needs your dopeness Mack .. and your daughter and your wife needs your presence. keep pushing 💪🏾

[@JesusChristandSonSoldier]

👌🏽💯

[@breayyayiyt8005]

Jesus is your way to heaven, he paid the price for your sins. Once you believe you are sealed and saved forever. Salvation is a free gift.

[@iamjesse9398]

@@breayyayiyt8005 did i ask you about jesus 🙄 worry about your own salvation ..

[@teri_p]

Exactly

[@jillianetuk5189]

@@iamjesse9398 exactly focus on your own journey with christ

[@ajones21606]

Love Mack and glad he married a black queen.

[@yolandalcheek462]

Big facts

[@-sdot83]

What if he married outside?

[@Gurlita85]

@@-sdot83 he didn’t! He married a black woman and you will deal!

[@-sdot83]

@@Gurlita85 I'm sorry I will what?

[@AfricanGirl]

right

[@mermaidtingzzz]

Tristan has done so well for himself! Glad to see he has a family and wasn’t afraid to commit to the right one! God please keep this family in your grace. Thank you for your vulnerability.

[@lisasuzanne8474]

Isn't that his daughter's name?

[@JesusChristandSonSoldier]

Indeed💕

[@goldiejolie]

@@lisasuzanne8474 He said his daughter was named after him!

[@lisasuzanne8474]

@@goldiejolie ~ Yeah, but they're not calling him that here. 🤷

[@Msboochie2]

@@lisasuzanne8474 So? It's still his real name. ”Mack” is stage name

[@demetriapeoples550]

Young man please don’t ever allow the enemy to take you that dark place ever again. Stay close to God. He is your help. I pray on your behalf against the spirit of depression and suicide.God Cover this young man and his family In Jesus name. Amen 🙏🏽 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@stacymartin5442]

Amen 🙏🏾

[@23223209]

Depression is a hormonal imbalance in the brain and you telling him to pray to God against this “spirit” is dismissive as if God doesn’t know his heart. Mental health is real and prayer can’t change a chemical imbalance!

[@meccmecc3466]

Aaaaaamen, Amen & Amen again!!!!!

[@meccmecc3466]

Demetria Chillis 💯❤️❤️

[@zeewash7153]

Amen.

[@baileyjohn5010]

I used to work at Sony Music, back when it was on Madison Ave (real heads remember). Every now and again, Mack Wilds would be standing outside in the evenings when we left. He was always smiling and greeted my and my other female colleagues when we left in the evenings. He always seemed very pleasant and happy

[@FaithandNova]

That's why we have to be kind to others. What might seem like smiles is a bed of nails to the person struggling mentally.

[@khigg40]

Mack Wilds has always been one of my favorite actors/entertainer. He's the little cousin in my family (not literally lol). His eyes tells his story. I'm glad he takes a healthy pause in life, it's therapeutic. Keep God first, God is definitely the 3rd leg in your relationship please stay focused and prayed up. *PS - there is nothing wrong with attending therapy. It saved my life along with God, my family, and friends.

[@Rhenadhis]

It's like Cuba Goodings Jnr and Michael Ealy had a baby. Thanks for being honest about your mental health, i hope it helps everyone and especially men to speak up and seek help

[@joyfulgail]

Micheal from the Wire am so proud of him i pray he keeps walking in faith.

[@musiclover-cn7tb]

he seems to be in better spirits he just announced him and Christina are having baby number 2.

[@mvgoldie]

i’m soooo happy he didn’t give into those suicidal thoughts. he has such a beautiful family. i’m so happy he got through that dark place. praying for you guys ❤️

[@mauriceharriott2569]

*It's hard to see your own light when you are in a dark place* but it's awesome that he has his wife and daughter right by his side waiting with open arms to receive him from that dark place

[@samanthatheegr8]

Mental illness is Real for African Americans and I love everyone speaking out on depression. This will help the Black community destigmtize it and be fine with getting help.

[@lifeisbeautiful9455]

If only my father would have got help, my mother would be alive. He’s 75 still never got help. I’ve seen the dark side of when men can’t express themselves so they resort to violence. My father hates me. So we don’t have a relationship. He says I’m too independent. I don’t follow the same religion. He’s verbally abusive too! He’s always tried to control me my whole life and couldn’t. He believes women are to be controlled and in the house with no career or money. He abused my mother daily and he didn’t work himself just collected government assistance. We were his meal ticket. He dropped out school never did nothing with his life but abuse my mother and his kids.

[@Faithistheanswer]

@@lifeisbeautiful9455 wow, thanks for sharing. May God heal you.

[@testedtried1233]

Keep an eye on him and listen when he speaks. He can turn if the depression creeps in again. Bless him and cover him Lord.

[@EBONYMONiQUE777]

Me and my bf were talking about this the other day. Within the black community mental health isn't talked about enough, especially with black men and boys. I applaud him for telling his truth. Beautiful family

[@ssunshyne9479]

He needs to put out more music too...I love his singing voice

[@BayouBellePhDBe]

God continue to give him light!

[@bevstrong3651]

I praise him for being so vulnerable and honest. I loved him on 90210. We need to raise more awareness with suicide and mental health and stop it to be a taboo subject. And society needs to stop putting so much pressure on us individuals.

[@zeewash7153]

So true. I had a strong desire to write about it. God blessed me to complete it this year.

[@ravenj33]

I remember seeing a picture of him on Instagram. It was maybe a year or 2 ago. I remember seeing how sad his eyes looked. How depressed he looked. So I am very happy he got the help he needed to deal with his depression. 🙏🏾

[@fefesmith82]

I've always loved Mack as an actor artist n as a person !! His aura was always pure raw n real! I feel bad that he went thru wat he did but I'm sooo glad he made it thru and his wife n daughter are beautiful!! Keeping God first is always the key..

[@musiclover-cn7tb]

Me too love the vibe .

[@shelbimdennis]

I urge everyone but especially my black community, please go to therapy and talk out your truths. I’ve learned so much from it and I’ve allowed myself to grow.

[@triamoore2931]

I agree and great for you I’m glad you’re growing and thinking better 💪🏾

[@prettymelanin4870]

I want to but It may to be expensive for me

[@AfricanGirl]

especially going at a young age

[@AfricanGirl]

@@prettymelanin4870 tour insurance company goes half on it

[@jujununya9182]

I hate that he thought the world would be better without him. That makes me so sad 😢😔 I'm glad he's out of that dark place. Thank the Lord 🙏🏾

[@phoenixrose6608]

Ikr my bf was jealous of him because I always played Own It & watched Season 4 of The Wire, then I got jealous of Adele for having him in her video lol 😆🤦🏾‍♀️ but rt I'm from London so he has touched many people who appreciate him 🤗

[@jujununya9182]

@@phoenixrose6608 lol he's very talented and have touched so many!

[@tashahall1855]

Keep going Mack, we need more black men like you. Life is definitely hard but you have 2 awesome reasons 2 be here.

[@estadje]

I have felt this way. My son definitely is a light in the darkness. I wish I could afford therapy🙏🏿. It really does help.

[@janicepittman8241]

Prayers for you that you will always know God's love for you and that he ensured your survival to this point that you will always know it. Stay strong and with us, dear one ❤

[@marissadorsey5232]

Look into your insurance. Therapy should be covered. I just started grief counseling. I do have a copy per visit.

[@lalaj2065]

I am so happy! He is still here . Here to even speak on this. Therapy and doing the work is so crucial. Wow, you can tell he is special. Bless his family.

[@divinediva8084]

You can feel his authenticity through the screen! I can’t wait to watch this episode! 🌺❤️

[@PeytonFan1816]

Vulnerability in a man is very essential to his mental wellbeing!!! Him having a safe space for that vulnerability is just as important!! Thank you for being transparent Mack!!! And thank you for all parents that understand that our children do deserve the best very best of us. Healing gives them that.

[@takishajohnson7145]

I'm so glad he was brave enough to get the help he needs and is here to enjoy his beautiful family. He really is a great talent.

[@mysticIvy324]

I could always tell he has a good heart ❤ I wish him well!

[@LayoWills]

This was incredible! Thanks OWN for putting a spotlight on this man! His testimony will help so many! It’s so encouraging to see strong black men in a positive light! We need more of this!

[@MaryJane.007]

This is powerful and beautiful.

[@JesusChristandSonSoldier]

🙌🏽💕

[@jnicolebell9937]

People will always see your glory, but not see your story. That's why it pays to be kind to people, and expecting nothing in return. Everyone is fighting a different battle. Much love and be blessed ❤

[@alleykatt6110]

So young, and yet so wise! More so that men three times his age! A real woman can only love a man that can feel, cry, hurt and know how to express that and let her in…. let her love you. A truly strong man knows how, and when to ask for help. Kudos to you!

[@Infiniti3000]

That smile, I’ve always loved him and look forward to seeing more from him. I love that his daughter is named after him.

[@keepingitkasey]

I feel like watched him grow up in front of our eyes 👀 from the wire to 90210....to music to fatherhood

[@yvonneossei1965]

I’m here for this. As a community we need to speak out about mental health, it’s uber important. Stay blessed 👍🏿

[@jamekanicole5708]

ughhh i miss him on 90210 always gone be my fav happy to see his growth

[@tiina4691]

Bless u sir, seek God above all, that is where life starts.

[@cb4664]

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Proverbs 9:10.

[@JesusChristandSonSoldier]

🙌🏽💕

[@kashmeremajesty2163]

One of my all time favorite male actors. It is sad he had to go through so much but a big blessing he pulled through with the help of his beautiful wife and daughter.

[@stroop3666]

She is entitled to YOU too dad!! Do NOT leave your besutiful bsby!!!!

[@chefnic4763]

Mental health is everything! So glad to see this beautiful little family doing well! ❤

[@cb4664]

Thank you for showing that a real man has feelings and pain too. It’s time to realize that men need to feel safe to be vulnerable and say I hurt, and/or I’m afraid. God bless you sir. Look to Him. He will NEVER fail you.

[@kierarose9617]

Black love! I’m glad he got the help he needs and the motivation! ❤️❤️

[@rrbabygirrl4822]

So sweet how he loves his family. Thank you for speaking out on mental health issues. We want to see you continue to be you.

[@myarenea1125]

Mack is such a wholesome pure soul 🤍

[@Sparkl4860]

Thank you for being a voice. We do need you here. Stay strong my friend. You've got this.

[@thtpeacechic]

Damn this is beautiful, both the light and darkness.

[@amyt6254]

I love that he said we all deserve therapy, smart man.

[@celebritney22]

WOW! Mack has always been an amazing soul but he is also an amazing human. In real life! I'm proud of you, T! sooo happy for you. Keep growing!

[@CelestialGatez]

I love their union. Simply beautiful. They respect and cherish one another. Black love. Let's see more of it.

[@lorrainefrancis5812]

Mack always keep God first and let him lead your path daily..Thank for being so honest , will help others confront their challenges without fear .. God Bless you and your family Always..

[@a.sydney5036]

Daughter looks just like mom. Cute.

[@kendraphic87]

People who deal with depression, we are good at hiding it. A lot of ppl spend so much time in that darkness, we feel a lot of shame and hurt. We want to be “ normal”. Many people who live with depression, often study others because we wonder why we just can’t be happy. I believe many are genuinely loving, caring and giving but a lot fake that happiness.. it’s often overly exaggerated. It’s not called a silent killer for nothing. People always say I appear so calm, beautiful and serene… they just don’t know the pain I’ve battled with daily, inside of my mind since the age of 14. I’m grateful for my daughter, she gives me so much hope. Now that’s real depression when you can feel like maybe you wouldn’t have made it, if you didn’t have your kid. Ironically, I start therapy next week. Tbh I’m scared but I know I need to go. Thanks for this. This is needed for our community and all communities. Especially needed for black men. I commend this strong black man.

[@tcdecatur2077]

Hang in there! We’re rooting for you!

[@saida4292]

You dont need a light: YOU ARE THE LIGHT! I am pleased he found his happy place ❤

[@Papi4.44]

Blessings to you and your family🙏🏽

[@JesusChristandSonSoldier]

🙌🏽💕🙏🏾

[@Wavylikedaviee]

I’m so proud of him coming from the same neighborhood he grew up in

[@k.skyytherapper9866]

She’s beautiful 😍 happy to hear he has her to make life complete his wife is beautiful and seems to have a great heart glad he has her in his life also

[@choklitfactory]

God bless him and his beautiful family. I will say a prayer for him today. God wants you here.

[@nataliewaterman6114]

Profound story.... continue to liberate others by telling your story. Oh and I especially like the part about you both settling if you all had married someone differently.

[@alexaskrammer5596]

I totally get where he’s coming from. It’s true. Why can’t men do something with their voice and provide a platform to ALLOW men to feel comfortable expressing their feelings.

[@taalibah]

I felt that beautiful spirit of him and his family. Very beautiful. And I admire his vulnerability. Keep healing

[@MrsDiamonds28]

So weird my husband and I were just watch the wire with this young man I am glad he is finding peace and was so real with telling his story

[@Beesoul91]

I loved this! I've been a fan of Tristan for so long! God Bless him & his family 💙🙏🏽

[@crystalgee7885]

Always remember when you are in that dark place of suicidal thoughts that it will pass YOU HAVE TO FIGHT EACH AND EVERY TIME YOU STRUGGLE!! Imagine if you give into those thoughts and don’t fight then the blessings that you are too yourself and other people will be missed FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT EVERY TIME YOU STRUGGLE WITH S/I

[@kadeijadalrymple137]

Be unapologetically uu & speak your truth. Keep walking in your light Mack 💛💜

[@thedaring5021]

Young brother continue to get the help and support you deserve, for youself and faimly. Proud of you.

[@crescentmoondesigns7515]

Damn I want to cultivate this in my relationship I respect that it's really great love your wife and daughter it takes a strong man to be so vulnerable and loving

[@shaunajohnson423]

Wow this is deep. We don't know the mindset of how another person is feeling sometimes it good just offer a smile or just say hi to someone because they may be struggling with something and you may be that change. Good story thanks for sharing Wilds by the way what a beautiful family. Be blessed

[@cocot9414]

Such an expressive young man.

[@Sunshine134chick]

This was so emotional 🥹 for me talking about mental health is so important ❤

[@aran08504]

ah this is so sweet. I still remember the role you played on The Wire excellent actor.

[@kaybee5162]

What a beautiful family!

[@jaylaav1166]

My teen crush 😍😍 God bless his family ❤️

[@j871]

we need your mindset around Mack ! stay strong

[@user-ip5fm3ck4p]

That last sentence touched me deeply. 💗

[@JesusChristandSonSoldier]

🙏🏾💕🙌🏽

[@LadyT567]

Awesome awesome story. It’s so amazing that you have faced those hardships and ptsd. Yes therapy is everything. So glad I found my counselor!!!! God is amazing in the game as well and remember keep him first Bc he will pull you through it all along with that counselor. 🥰🥰🥰

[@patremagilbert8787]

Keep pushing. I'm glad u are here. U are a fighter.

[@aisharay9861]

Oh that breaks my heart that he was I such a dark place. He always seems so happy. I never know what someone is going through.

[@mariebaldeo3423]

Your life is precious Mack, live it. Life is a mix of good days and bad days; keep going no matter the obstacles in your way. You are blessed with a lovely wife and daughter who need you as much as you need them. Stay strong young prince.

[@CatB1PYT]

I knew it was something very special about this youngMan, when I was enjoying The Wire. He’s got Sincere Swag and Maturity. He is truly the epitome of a Young Black Man. Not allowing that Hollyweirdo Mentality to overcome him. I’m so happy he was able to overcome his PTSD/Depression. I’m sharing this with everyone I know. I’m cheering and praying for you Mr.Wilds..King.

[@lovekiki8399]

He is such a good dad

[@scarsofthepastministry]

Such a courageous inspiring story. I am so glad you found your LIGHT. Blessings to you and your family Mack Wilds.

[@TheThebrooklyndoll]

I've loved him since the wire and still play his music till this day! Such a warm soul we need more people like you Tristan!

[@jennyjones3978]

I’m glad he made it out that dark place. I pray he never go back. He has a beautiful family! ❤️

[@ShawnaTress88]

Mack you are beautiful soul and , family is as well.I was blessed to with your perspective in this moment, you were sent here for a reason, don't ever forget that love and love you are❤

[@SherrainePhillips]

This was beautiful to watch ❤️

[@theamandajw]

Beautiful story thank you for bringing attention to the importance of mental health and breaking down the stigma of black men not having feeling, needing support and love. Stay blessed king 👑

[@dabadguy312]

Im beyond happy for them its rare for this generation

[@Macdaddy487]

One of the most beautiful and wholesome things ive seen.

[@BOOM.SHOPPERS]

I'm glad you are healing brother.

[@priscillabanks7826]

I Have Always Love and Respected Him I Watched him grow Up and I'm Older yet You have to Give Kings Their Crown And I Love their LOVE LANGUAGE FOR EACH OTHER AND MAY THEIR FAMILY STAY BLESSED BLACK LOVE 💕🤎🤎🤎🤎🤎🤎

[@kieramarshall9319]

Been a fan of him since Secret Life of Bees. He’s grown into a wonderful man, husband, & father. It’s been beautiful to watch! His music is also underrated!! Glad he is being open and honest. It’s refreshing to see in a black man.

[@jayforrester2163]

You are an inspiration to you and your family first remember that. After you gain strength to stand strong you can conquer anything. Healing Love n Light to you and anyone going through same thing. One step at a time, one day at a time. Stay Blessed y’all.

[@joanjenny926]

I got out of my chair and stood up in respect for all three of you. You are a great Dad, be proud you have thoughts of greatness for your daughter and wife's journey. Give also to yourself and know you champion the way for girls. Blessings.

[@Jahmaicher]

Mack thanks for being vulnerable. You are helping people out here.

[@ronnieneville5914]

Hanging in there and never ever quiting is what a🤴🏿👸🏿dose another battle has been wond✌️ much love.

[@beemocha]

Hey Mack!! 👋🏽 I haven’t seen Mack Wilds on my screen for a minute! He looks so happy & he has such a beautiful family 👏🏽❤️

[@bkbabystace]

This was absolutely beautiful, and a beautiful family.