Gladys Knight has responded to accusations from her son, Shanga Hankerson, who claims that her husband, William McDowell, has been taking advantage of her mentally and financially.
Knight reassured fans that she is “healthy and happy” and looking forward to returning to the stage.
Hankerson, Knight’s son from her marriage to record producer Barry Hankerson, raised concerns over his mother’s busy tour schedule.
He said, “I don’t want my mom out on tour on a tour bus, wondering where she’s at,” describing her upcoming September tour as “detrimental” to her health. He also suggested that Knight is currently “on cruise control” and noted struggles with her memory.
Following his public statements, Hankerson filed a complaint with North Carolina’s Department of Human Services. The department confirmed to The Post that all complaints remain confidential and would not comment on any current or potential investigations.
Knight addressed the situation in a statement to The Post, clarifying that her “health and performances have been misrepresented.” She said, “I want my fans and those concerned to rest assured I am doing very well for someone who has been on stage for three quarters of a century, hard to believe, right? I’m healthy and happy, and visiting friends and family these last few months. I’m excited to get back on the road with my sisters and on stage with The Queens Tour. See you soon.”
Her publicist, Laura Herlovich, added that Knight’s team is “greatly saddened by Shanga’s unfounded allegations” and emphasized that he has had “no substantial contact with her.”
She also confirmed that Knight has not toured since June 1st and is preparing for her September tour. Herlovich stated, “At this time, our lawyers have no choice but to explore any and all legal remedies due to Shanga’s defamatory comments.”
McDowell, 48, addressed the controversy during an appearance on “Good Morning America,” stating that he would not comment on the allegations. He confirmed that Knight has never expressed a desire to stop performing, contradicting claims that she is being forced to continue touring.
Hankerson disputed the statements from Knight’s representatives, calling them “inaccurate” and asserting that he has been “purposefully kept in a position of having minimal access” to his mother.
“This has nothing to do with money for me,” he said. “I’m trying to get her to stop working.”
Knight’s personal life has included multiple high-profile marriages. She married William McDowell in 2001. Earlier, she was married to James Newman from 1960 to 1973, with whom she shares two children, James III and Kenya. She wed Barry Hankerson in 1974, ending the marriage five years later, and former Ohio representative Les Brown in 1995, which ended in 1997.
Despite the ongoing family dispute, Knight remains focused on her health, family, and career. She has emphasized to fans that she is well and eager to resume touring and performing.
