The son of legendary American singer Gladys Knight, Shanga Hankerson, has accused his mother’s husband and manager, William McDowell, of pushing the 82-year-old singer to continue working despite concerns about her wellbeing.
Hankerson told The Detroit News that McDowell had no intention of stopping Knight’s tour dates, despite the singer recently announcing that she would reduce her live performances.
“My belief and fear is that he intends to literally try to work her until she passes away,” Hankerson said.
He also alleged that his mother was being exploited and described her situation as a form of elder abuse.
Knight announced in August that she would be easing into fewer performances after more than 75 years in the music industry, saying she wanted to focus on the next stage of her life, spend more time with her husband and visit her grandchildren.
The latest allegations come amid renewed concerns over Knight’s recent performances, with reports that the singer appeared to struggle during some shows.
However, McDowell has previously said Knight wanted to continue performing, while Knight’s representatives have rejected similar allegations from her son as unfounded. Knight herself previously assured fans that she was healthy and happy.
Hankerson’s latest comments have renewed public attention on the singer’s health, touring schedule and relationship with her husband.
