Gladys Knight’s Son Accuses Husband Of Overworking 82-Year-Old Singer

Shanga Hankerson, the son of legendary American singer Gladys Knight, has accused her husband and manager, William McDowell, of endangering the 82-year-old artist by overworking her.

Speaking to The Detroit News, Hankerson claimed that McDowell is pushing his mother to maintain a heavy touring schedule despite visible concerns about her health and well-being. He described the situation as financial and physical exploitation, expressing fears that the continuous performances could severely harm his mother.

However, Knight clarified her touring plans in a public statement on Monday, September 14, 2026. The singer announced that she plans to complete her remaining scheduled shows for the year before stepping back from live touring to focus on new projects in 2027.