Gladys Knight’s son accuses husband of pushing singer to continue touring

A public dispute has emerged regarding the touring schedule and well-being of 82-year-old R&B singer Gladys Knight. Her son, Shanga Hankerson, has accused her husband and manager, William McDowell, of pushing her to continue performing excessively.

Hankerson expressed concern that McDowell intends to “work her until she passes away,” alleging that the singer is a victim of elder abuse. These claims follow recent performances in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Terre Haute, Indiana, where some attendees reported that Knight appeared to struggle with lyrics or ended her set early.

McDowell has denied allegations that Knight has been diagnosed with dementia and maintains that she wishes to continue singing. He previously stated that her performance in Tulsa would determine whether her remaining concert dates would be canceled. However, Knight has continued to appear at scheduled venues in Cincinnati and Shipshewana. Knight recently issued a statement indicating that, after discussions with her team, she recognizes it is time to scale back her performances.