Gladys Knight Shuts Down Elder Abuse Claims With Powerful Message
Gladys Knight is speaking directly to her fans after some heavy accusations from her son, Shanga Hankerson. He recently claimed that Knight’s husband, William Macdowell, has been “mentally and financially abusive” and pressuring the soul legend to keep working despite her age and health.
In a statement to PEOPLE, Knight, 81 made it clear she’s still standing strong and loving the journey. “I’m sorry that my 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.”
At this point in her career, Gladys Knight has nothing left to prove, but she’s still putting on for her fans. She’s gearing up for The Queens Tour with Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, and Stephanie Mills — a powerhouse lineup celebrating Black music excellence.
Shanga Hankerson Raises Concerns Over His Mother’s Well-Being
On the flip side, Knight’s son, Shanga Hankerson, isn’t backing down. He insists his mother’s workload is too much and even pointed to a scary New Year’s Day moment when, according to him, she didn’t recognize him for nearly 45 minutes.
“Why is she working? Why is she in this situation where she’s being made to believe that she has to work like this?” he told PEOPLE.
Hankerson also emphasized this isn’t about money. “This has nothing to do with money for me. I’m trying to get her to stop working.”
Earlier this month, he filed a complaint with the Department of Human Services in Buncombe County, North Carolina, which led to an in-home assessment. Hankerson claims his mother’s schedule is “detrimental,” noting she has shown signs of memory decline over the years.
Knight’s Team Dismisses Allegations As “Unfounded”
Gladys Knight’s camp is calling the whole thing “unfounded.” Her publicist, Laura Herlovich, told PEOPLE that Knight hasn’t even been touring since June. Instead, she’s been resting, spending time with family, and gearing up for her comeback in September.
Her team also revealed that her lawyers are exploring possible legal action against her son for the claims. It’s clear Knight isn’t letting these accusations stop her shine. She’s got 11 shows lined up before the year is out, and her focus is on the music, the fans, and the joy she gets from being on stage.
Gladys Knight Puts The Focus Back On Her Music
Through it all, Gladys Knight is reminding everybody why she’s a legend. She’s not about the drama — she’s about the music. “I’m healthy and happy,” she assured fans, putting the spotlight back on her artistry instead of the allegations.