Nationwide — Gladys Knight’s Son Raises Alarm Over Mother’s Health, Accuses Husband of Elder Abuse
Shanga Hankerson, son of legendary singer Gladys Knight, says his mother is showing early signs of dementia and has accused her husband, William McDowell, of elder abuse. Hankerson claims McDowell is pressuring Knight to continue touring despite her declining health.
Hankerson filed a formal complaint with the North Carolina Department of Human Services, expressing concern over Knight’s grueling schedule on “The Queen’s Tour,” where she shares the stage with Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, and Stephanie Mills. He alleges her ongoing performances are taking a significant toll on her well-being.
He recalled a concert last summer when Knight reportedly “zoned out” and forgot her part, and noted that her personality has noticeably changed over the past few years—from calm and gentle to more agitated, particularly when disoriented or unsure of her surroundings.
“She’s being made to think that she needs to work, and what that means is that he’s not going to be present with her,” Hankerson told The Root.
Hankerson also described an incident last year when Knight wandered away from her hotel and ended up across town. Staff recognized her but noticed she could not clearly explain why she was there, prompting her daughter to contact longtime road manager Larry Ward for help.
Since filing the complaint, Hankerson says McDowell has sent several texts, insisting Knight is “happy and loved” and urging for peace. In one message, McDowell warned that involving police or social services could jeopardize what Knight is “trying to maintain.”
McDowell also reportedly cited “Sundowner’s Syndrome,” a condition that can cause evening confusion. However, Hankerson claims the family has been largely kept in the dark about Knight’s medical care and overall condition.
Hankerson emphasized that his intention is not to disrupt the tour but to protect his mother.
“That’s my mom, I truly love her. I don’t care about her ever working another second while she’s alive. The direction she’s going in is pushing her toward her departure, and I don’t want to see that,” he said.