Cory Monteith may have been “easing himself out” of the Hollywood spotlight before unexpectedly dying due to alcohol and heroin toxicity last summer.
In her first interview since suffering the “horrendous” loss just over a year ago, Ann McGregor, 63, told ABC News correspondent Bianna Golodryga that the “Glee” star was talking about leasing a new home in Vancouver two days before he was found dead in a hotel room.
Also read: ‘Glee’ Stars, Ryan Murphy Remember Cory Monteith One Year After Death
She wouldn’t, however, place any blame on the pressures of fame that often come with a Hollywood career.
“I don’t think blame is a good thing to do; that was his choice,” McGregor said in the interview (below) that aired on “Good Morning America” on Thursday.
See photos: Cory Monteith: A Life and Career In Pictures
It was still too soon to talk about the emotions she felt when she heard the news, but McGregor noted significant progress in accepting her son’s death.
“Until three days ago I couldn’t look at a picture of Cory,” McGregor said.
Also read: ‘Glee’ Hack Attack Hits Lea Michele Over Pregnancy
When asked to give advice to other mothers with children battling drug addiction, McGregor admitted she didn’t have the answer, but recommended enjoying “every moment” they have together.
“I don’t think we have power to change the choices they’re making. I think with the kind of connection Cory and I had, if we couldn’t prevent that situation, I don’t have the answer,” McGregor said. “What could I say to them? Live every moment. Grab the second.”