Sophie Winkleman, the actress known for her role in Peep Show and as Lady Frederick Windsor, has publicly addressed the devastating death of Thomas Kingston, the late husband of her sister-in-law, Lady Gabriella Kingston.
A Family Tragedy
In a new interview, Winkleman described the event as a 'big tragedy' that continues to deeply affect the entire family. Thomas Kingston died on February 24, 2024, at his parents' home in the Cotswolds. A coroner's inquest at Gloucestershire Coroner's Court later determined that he died from a shotgun wound to the head, with a gun found near his body.
Winkleman, who is married to Lady Gabriella's brother, Lord Frederick Windsor, shared her personal grief. 'We all miss him every day. My girls adored him,' she said. She went on to tell The Sunday Times, 'It's brutal. We're still in touch with all his family and it feels like he's still with us.'
The Role of Prescribed Medication
The inquest revealed crucial details about the circumstances leading to the tragedy. Thomas Kingston had been experiencing work-related stress and sleep issues. His GP at the Royal Mews Surgery had prescribed him medication, including the antidepressant Sertraline and the sleeping tablet Zopiclone.
When he reported that the medication was not helping, his GP switched Sertraline for Citalopram, another type of antidepressant. Lady Gabriella Kingston stated at the inquest that she believes his death was 'likely provoked' by an adverse reaction to this medication, which he had started and then stopped taking in the weeks before his death.
She emphasised the need for greater awareness, saying, 'I believe anyone taking pills such as these need to be made more aware of the side effects to prevent any future deaths. If this could happen to Tom, this could happen to anyone.'
Lasting Impact and a Call for Awareness
The profound impact of the loss has prompted action within the family. In its wake, Lord Frederick Windsor has begun working with the charity James' Place, which provides support for men experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Sophie Winkleman, who stars in the new BBC series Black Cherry, reflected on the painful lesson learned from the ordeal. 'It's not a positive to come out of it at all, but it makes you so much more aware that the exterior of someone can be very different from what’s going on inside,' she remarked, highlighting the hidden struggles many face.
If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch. You can also speak to a trained advisor from the mental health charity Mind on 0300 123 3393 or email info@mind.org.uk.
