“I Love You, Dad”: A Heartbreaking Final Text, and a Family’s Unimaginable Loss

The last message Michael Madsen ever received from his son was just four words:
“I love you, Dad.”

Those were Hudson Madsen’s final words before the 26-year-old Army sergeant, husband, and godson of director Quentin Tarantino, took his own life in January 2022.

Hudson had recently returned from a tour in Afghanistan and was stationed in Hawaii. Outwardly, he seemed to be doing well—married to his wife Carlie since 2019, building a life together, and facing their fertility struggles as a team. Carlie had just undergone surgery to remove a tumor. Through it all, they appeared happy.

But behind the smiles, something darker was stirring.

Michael Madsen told the Los Angeles Times he was stunned by his son’s death.“He said he was happy,” he said. “I didn’t see any signs of depression.”

Hudson had reportedly battled mental health challenges, but ultimately stopped seeking help—fearing the stigma that still lingers within the military community. Now, his family is left searching for answers. Michael has asked for an official investigation into what really happened—and what might have been missed.

After Hudson’s death, Carlie took to social media to share her heartbreak:
“I just wish you would have talked to me,” she wrote.
“I’m sorry I didn’t see the signs.”

The pain is still fresh, raw, and hard to process.
“We are heartbroken and overwhelmed with grief and pain at the loss of Hudson,” the family said in a statement.

Mental health is health. And no one should ever feel alone.
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