In a bittersweet Instagram post, 82-year-old Gladys Knight updated fans after announcing a break from performing in August 2026.
“After heartfelt discussions with my team, I recognize that no matter how much I love lifting spirits in song, it’s time for the midnight train to make just a few more stops,” she wrote. Knight said she plans to finish the year strong before shifting to new ventures in 2027, adding her gratitude for decades of support.
Fans raised concerns last month after Knight appeared confused on stage and briefly forgot lyrics during a performance. She later shared that she would be stepping back to focus on being a grandmother.
Now, it appears her remaining dates may serve as a farewell tour. But her son, Shanga Hankerson, says he’s worried about her health — and accused Knight’s husband, William McDowell, of pushing her to keep performing. “My belief and fear is that he intends to literally try to work her until she passes away,” Hankerson told the Detroit News.
Knight’s final show is Nov. 14 in Highland, Calif.