Niko McKnight, the estranged son of singer Brian McKnight, died on last Thursday after a battle with cancer. He was 32.
Niko’s mother, Julie McKnight, confirmed the tragic news in a statement on social media.
“Nikolas was a cherished husband, son, brother, grandson, uncle, and nephew whose warmth, laughter, and love touched the lives of all who knew him,” Julie posted.
Brian McKnight has yet to break his silence on Niko’s death, though the pair had reportedly been estranged for a number of years. The rift began when Brian McKnight publicly referred to his oldest kids – Niko and older brother Brian Jr. – as “products of sin” on social media.
Last year, Niko took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his feelings about the relationship.
“When I was about to die in the hospital from complications from my cancer, I just wanted to bury the hatchet and hear him say he loves me,” Niko tweeted in April of 2024. “He told me he couldn’t arbitrarily tell me he loves me. Still cuts so deep.” In a separate tweet, Niko said he had “given up all hope” on a reconciliation.
So sorry for your loss praying for the family. It’s heartbreaking that his dad is acting this way and his wife is allowing it. He will have to answer to God.
He should have unconditional love for his children he made the decision to have them . If I was wife I would leave him I wouldn’t be able to live in the same house let alone in the same bed with him. That tell me neither one them ain’t about nothing!!!! You can’t even show love to your own son !!! Brian McKnight has demons but you will regret everything!!!! I’m ashame of myself for liking your music!!!! You don’t have God in you!!!! Your music is trashed . And you like to sing about love , lil boy trapped in a mans body!!!!!!
I’m Soooo sorry for your lost Mother and Family!!!!
We’re quick to judge with only knowing part of the story. We agree with what makes us feel better. No one knows why their relationship is like it is. We should pray for both and let God handle it.