Son Raises Alarm Over Gladys Knight’s Well-Being
Shanga Hankerson, son of music icon Gladys Knight, has accused her husband, William McDowell, of elder abuse. He claims the 81-year-old singer is being overworked despite signs of declining cognitive health.
Hankerson reportedly filed a complaint with North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) to protect his mother. The allegations, first reported by The Shade Room on August 13, 2025, claim McDowell is forcing Knight to continue touring while portraying her as unaffected.
Knight is scheduled to perform alongside Chaka Khan, Stephanie Mills, and Patti LaBelle in the next leg of her tour.
Concerns About Her Health
Hankerson told The Shade Room, “I’m extremely concerned about how she is being handled right now.” He explained that Knight’s demeanor has shifted over the years, from “angelic” to “aggressive,” especially when she becomes disoriented or cannot locate McDowell.
“That’s my biggest issue,” Hankerson added. “He manipulates that to the fullest and not in a good way. 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 also described an incident where Knight left her hotel, ended up at another across town, and could not answer staff questions about her presence. He claims McDowell later texted him, noting she has “Sundowner syndrome,” a dementia-related condition causing confusion and agitation in the late afternoon and evening.
US singer Gladys Knight and William McDowell arrive for the 45th Kennedy Center Honors at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., on December 4, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Family Tensions
Hankerson alleged that McDowell sent him text messages criticizing his decision to involve authorities. McDowell reportedly accused him of disrupting a family gathering and limiting Knight’s time with her children and grandchildren.
McDowell allegedly told Hankerson that he could visit anytime but insisted Knight was content and well cared for. He warned that bringing police or social service agencies could disturb her peace, urging Hankerson to prioritize her comfort over intervention.
Knight’s Past Statements on Marriage
Despite Hankerson’s concerns, Knight has previously spoken positively about her marriage. In a 2022 Closer Weekly interview, she credited their lasting relationship to shared faith. “You have to always know that the Lord is going to make a way. We put him first,” she said.
In 2019, she celebrated their anniversary on Instagram, writing, “My life is so much better with you in it. ‘You’re the best thing that ever happened to me.’ Happy Anniversary babe! ❤️😘”
Health Scare and Recovery
Hankerson’s allegations came after a separate health incident in March 2025, when Knight was hospitalized shortly before a scheduled performance at the Florida Theatre in Jacksonville. Emergency responders treated her, and her show was canceled, shocking fans.
Florida Theatre President Numa Saisselin assured concertgoers that tickets would remain valid for a rescheduled date and praised fans for their understanding. Knight returned home to North Carolina to recover, leaning on McDowell during her recuperation.
Focus on Rest and Recovery
Back home, Knight focused on resting with McDowell by her side. Fans continue to send support, hopeful for her safe return to the stage.
