Gladys Knight says she is “happy and healthy” after son’s elder abuse claim
Gladys Knight has spoken out after her son accused her husband of elder abuse, insisting she is “healthy and happy” as she prepares to return to the stage.
Shanga Hankerson, 49, alleged last week that Knight’s husband, William McDowell, who is three decades her junior, was subjecting the 81-year-old soul icon to a punishing touring schedule.
Speaking to The Shade Room, Hankerson said: “I don’t want my mom out on a tour bus wondering where she’s at,” noting that he was so worried he had filed a complaint with North Carolina’s Department of Human Services.
Speaking to The Independent, Knight has defied these claims and said her career is also being “misrepresented,” reassuring fans that she was enjoying time with loved ones ahead of The Queens Tour. “I’m healthy and happy and visiting friends and family these last few months,” she said. “I can’t wait to get back on the road with my sisters… see you soon.”
McDowell was questioned on Good Morning America about the claim but refused to be drawn on making a statement, instead saying that Knight’s words “speak for themselves.”
Hankerson has continued to voice concerns, claiming his mother has struggled with memory issues in recent years and questioning why she continues to work. Knight’s representatives have said this claim is “unfounded” and that she has not been on tour since June but is looking forward to being back on the stage in September. They also hinted at legal action.
“I did my best to give [McDowell] the space to play the role of husband and do what was in my mom’s best interest,” Hankerson told People. “He has not done that. Why is she working? Why is she in this situation where she’s being made to believe she has to work like this?”
The fallout has become a painful clash between family and the icon’s inner circle.
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