Gladys Knight Affirms She's “Healthy and Happy” Amid Son’s Elder Abuse Claims Against Husband

Soul icon Gladys Knight assures fans she’s well and vibrant despite son’s serious accusations against her husband.

When the legendary Gladys Knight steps onto the stage, you expect nothing less than magic. But recently, the spotlight turned to her personal life amid troubling accusations from her son about elder abuse. Despite the drama, Gladys Knight, the Empress of Soul herself, has come forward with a message of resilience: she is "healthy and happy," ready to keep living her extraordinary life.

A Son’s Concern Sparks a Serious Allegation

The story unfolded last week when Shanga Hankerson, 49, Gladys Knight’s son, publicly accused her husband, William McDowell, of mentally and financially abusing the 81-year-old soul powerhouse. The couple’s age gap, with McDowell being 33 years younger, adds to the public intrigue and concern.

Hankerson’s claim centers on a "detrimental" touring schedule that he says is wearing down his mother. “I don’t want my mom out on a tour bus wondering where she’s at,” he said in an interview with The Shade Room. Taking his concerns to the authorities, he filed a complaint with North Carolina’s Department of Human Services, seeking intervention.

Gladys Knight’s Firm Response: “I’m Doing Very Well”

Amid the swirling allegations, Gladys Knight took control of the narrative in a heartfelt statement to The Independent. With nearly 75 years in the music business, the very idea that she’s anything but vibrant seems impossible to many of her fans — and she confirmed it.

“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?” Knight shared. “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.”

Her words remind us of the enduring spirit that has carried her through decades of soulful melodies and timeless hits.

A Glimpse of Soul: The Timeless “Midnight Train to Georgia”

If you need a reminder of why Gladys Knight holds such an esteemed place in music history, just listen to her unforgettable hit:

This track, like many of hers, captures the raw emotion and storytelling that has defined her career.

William McDowell’s Take and Family Dynamics

William McDowell opted for a quiet stance, telling Good Morning America that he would let Gladys Knight’s statement speak for itself. It’s a dignified approach amid a storm of family tension.

Meanwhile, Shanga Hankerson elaborated his worries to People magazine, explaining his perspective on his mother’s working conditions. “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, and he has not done that. Why is she working? Why is she in this situation where she’s being made to believe that she has to work like this? That’s really my issue with it.”

Hankerson also raised concerns about memory struggles he believes Gladys Knight has faced recently. However, Knight’s publicist strongly refuted these claims, describing them as “unfounded allegations” and noting that Shanga “has had no substantial contact with her.” The statement also mentioned that Knight has not toured since June 1 and eagerly awaits her September tour dates.

Legal Actions and Ongoing Family Conflict

The publicist’s statement hinted at potential legal measures: “At this time our lawyers have no choice but to explore any and all legal remedies due to Shanga’s defamatory comments.” An intense family dispute, no doubt, but one in which Gladys Knight’s health and happiness remain front and center.

Hankerson, standing firm, called the publicist’s statement “inaccurate,” emphasizing that his mother’s “deterioration has occurred over a period of years and is very evident.”

The Legacy of the Empress of Soul

Through all the personal upheaval, Gladys Knight’s place in music history remains untouchable. Known as the ‘Empress of Soul,’ she boasts seven Grammy Awards, both solo and with her legendary backing band The Pips. Her catalog includes the seminal original version of “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” and iconic hits like “Midnight Train To Georgia” and “That’s What Friends Are For.”

Her contributions were formally recognized with prestigious honors in recent years:

• 2024 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient
• Kennedy Center Honors awardee in 2023

These accolades remind us that while life’s challenges may come and go, true artistry and legacy endure.

“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?”
— Gladys Knight

What’s Next for Gladys Knight?

As September approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating The Queens Tour, where Gladys Knight will share the stage with her sisters once again. It’s a testament to her unbreakable spirit and passion for music that she’s already looking forward to performing live again.

FAQs About Gladys Knight’s Recent News

• How old is Gladys Knight?
  Gladys Knight is 81 years old.
• Who is Gladys Knight’s husband?
  Her husband is William McDowell, who is 33 years younger than her.
• What allegations has Gladys Knight’s son made?
  Shanga Hankerson accused William McDowell of mentally and financially abusing Gladys Knight.
• Is Gladys Knight currently touring?
  She has not been on tour since June 1 but is set to return in September with The Queens Tour.
• Has Gladys Knight’s health been affected?
  Gladys Knight states she is healthy and happy, despite her son’s concerns.

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