Mario is opening up about the emotional journey of reconciling with his estranged father following the death of his mother, Shawntia Hardaway, in 2017. The performer shared that a moment of profound grief during his mother’s funeral served as the catalyst for healing a lifelong rift. “It was hard for me because you don’t know what you’re missing if you never had it,” Mario said during the broadcast. As his mother’s casket was being closed, Mario found himself overwhelmed by the weight of the loss. In addition to his musical pursuits, the singer continues to lead the Mario Do Right Foundation.