Gladys Knight Addresses Family Concerns Amid Elder Abuse Allegations

Legendary singer Gladys Knight has issued a statement reassuring her fans about her well-being following serious allegations from her eldest son, Shanga Hankerson, who accused her current husband, William McDowell, of elder abuse.

In a published statement, Knight expressed disappointment over false reports regarding her health and performances. “I’m healthy and joyful, visiting friends and family in recent months,” she stated. “I look forward to returning to the stage with my sisters on The Queens Tour. See you soon.”

Her publicist, Laura Herlovich, condemned the accusations, emphasizing that Knight and her team are “greatly saddened” by what she called unfounded claims, asserting that her son has had little contact with her and considering legal action against the defamatory remarks.

Shanga Hankerson, who shares a son with Knight, shared his concerns in an interview, alleging that McDowell is forcing his mother to perform despite her declining health. He claims he has reported the situation to North Carolina’s Department of Human Services, with the case ongoing. “They’re having to rewind the teleprompters because my mom is forgetting to even look at them,” he explained.

Hankerson accused McDowell of mental and financial abuse, questioning why his mother continues to tour and perform under these circumstances. He recalled an incident where Knight appeared to zone out during a performance, with background singers helping her regain focus.

The son also claimed he made efforts to allow her space as a husband but feels McDowell has not acted in her best interest. “I did my best to give him space and do what was right for her, but he has not,” Hankerson stated.

Knight’s marriage history includes previous unions with her ex-husband James Newman, who died in 1999, and Ohio representative Les Brown. She and William McDowell married in 2001, with McDowell being roughly 33 years her junior.