Nationwide — R&B singer Brian McKnight is dealing with backlash once more after the demise of his estranged son, Niko McKnight, who handed away at age 32 following a two-year battle with most cancers. Members of the family say Brian made no effort to contact Niko throughout his sickness or closing days.
Niko died surrounded by his mom, Julie McKnight, his brother Brian Jr., his spouse Carla, and different members of the family. Brian McKnight was noticeably absent. Julie confirmed Niko’s passing on Instagram.
In April 2024, Brian stated he and his spouse, Leilani Mendoza, had organized medical and monetary help for Niko. He claimed Julie requested them to step again, and so they revered her needs. Julie later denied that model of occasions stating, “He’s a liar.”
In line with WBLS, Brian’s relationship together with his older kids has been strained for years. In 2019, he publicly known as them “entitled” and “products of sin.” In 2023, he legally modified his title to match his new child son’s, additional distancing himself from his older children.
Niko as soon as carried out with Brian within the group MCKNIGHT, however later spoke out about their strained relationship. He claimed Brian pressured him to do humiliating duties as a teen and as soon as known as him “evil.”
Regardless of the whole lot, Niko stated he wished to make peace earlier than he died. He shared that he solely wished to listen to his father say “I really like you.” However Brian reportedly stated he couldn’t say it except he actually meant it.
