Gladys Knight's Son Says Her Husband Is Pushing Her to Keep Touring at 82

Gladys Knight has spent more than six decades on stage, and at 82 she’s still booking dates. But her son, Shanga Hankerson, told The Detroit News he believes her husband and manager, William McDowell, is pushing her to keep performing despite health concerns, adding that he fears McDowell could work her until she dies. McDowell denies forcing her to tour, saying Knight wants to sing and has not been diagnosed with dementia. Knight has acknowledged she has good days and bad ones.

The dispute went public after Knight announced in August that she would ease into fewer performances, following fan concern over shows in Detroit and at the Hollywood Bowl. She played Terre Haute, Indiana, after a Sept. 5 date in Tulsa, and has shows listed into November.

On Monday, Knight addressed it her own way, saying the“midnight train”has“just a few more stops”and that she plans to finish her 2026 shows. It’s a family matter with a marquee on it: a son who loves his mother, a husband who says he’s honoring her wishes, and a singer who has never seemed happier than when she’s on that stage. Who do you think should get the final say on when a legend steps off the road?