Michael Archer Jr. is speaking publicly for the first time about the devastating losses of his parents, Grammy-winning neo-soul pioneer D'Angelo and singer-songwriter Angie Stone, sharing how faith has anchored him in a season of unimaginable grief.
In Love & Neo-Soul: Honoring D'Angelo, now streaming on ABC News Live, Archer Jr. sits down for his first primetime interview since both deaths in 2025. Hosted by Rocsi Diaz, the special highlights the musical legacy of D'Angelo while offering an intimate look at the spiritual resilience of his son.
"I just was excited for the future ahead of us," Archer Jr. said, reflecting on the "man-to-man" relationship he had begun building with his father before D'Angelo passed away from pancreatic cancer in October. Just months earlier, Angie Stone died in a tragic car accident - a loss Archer Jr. was still processing when his father's illness rapidly progressed.
The overlapping tragedies left him navigating profound sorrow. Yet in the interview, Archer Jr. speaks openly about leaning into prayer, family and a renewed dependence on God during the darkest moments. He describes faith not as a quick fix for pain, but as a steady foundation that carries him through unanswered questions and lingering heartbreak.
The special also revisits the emotional Grammy tribute honoring D'Angelo and the late Roberta Flack. Led by Lauryn Hill, the performance was described by Archer Jr. as both "beautiful" and "bittersweet" - a public celebration of artistry intertwined with personal mourning.
Additional tributes in the program feature reflections from Andra Day, D-Nice, Ari Lennox, Lucky Daye and Elmiene - all honoring D'Angelo's transformative imprint on neo-soul and contemporary R&B.
While the special celebrates musical excellence, Archer Jr.'s testimony underscores something deeper: the sustaining power of faith in seasons of loss. In remembering his parents, he expressed gratitude for the legacy they leave behind - not only in song, but in love, perseverance and spiritual grounding.
Love & Neo-Soul: Honoring D'Angelo is now streaming on ABC News Live.
