Brian McKnight’s estranged son Niko McKnight passed away at 32 on May 29 2025 after a two-year battle with stage 4 colon cancer. The news confirmed by Brian’s brother Claude McKnight and Niko’s mother Julie McKnight has cast a spotlight on the R&B singer’s strained family dynamics. Here’s what you need to know about Niko’s death and the ongoing McKnight family saga.
Niko McKnight’s Legacy and Passing
Niko a talented singer guitarist and photographer died after fighting cancer since his diagnosis in January 2024. Claude shared the news in a heartfelt TikTok video saying “This morning I found out my nephew Niko McKnight passed away. He’d been bravely battling cancer for the last two years or so. Niko was one of those amazing kids quirky curious and ridiculously talented.” Julie McKnight Niko’s mother posted a statement on Instagram: “Nikolas was a cherished husband son brother grandson uncle and nephew whose warmth laughter and love touched all who knew him. His passing is an immeasurable loss.” Niko leaves behind his wife Carla mother Julie brother Brian Jr. and other family members.
Niko shared his journey on Instagram in 2024 writing “Your boy got the big C. It’s been one hell of a ride but things are looking better now” and crediting his wife for saving his life. Despite his optimism complications from cancer ended his fight.
Family Estrangement and Controversy
Brian McKnight 55 has not commented publicly on Niko’s death. The “Back at One” singer has been estranged from Niko Brian Jr. Briana and Clyde his four eldest children for years. In 2019 he addressed the rift saying “I’ve been there for my children every step of the way until recently. I’m not abandoning them. We’re estranged.” Tensions escalated in 2024 when Brian called his eldest kids “products of sin” claiming he cut ties to live a life free of “evil and negativity.” Niko hit back alleging Brian forced him to clean used condoms as a teen and forged signatures. He also shared a heartbreaking moment from his hospital bed saying he sought reconciliation but Brian refused saying he “couldn’t arbitrarily” express love.
Julie McKnight Brian’s ex-wife from 1990 to 2003 defended her sons calling Brian’s claims a “false narrative.” She described him as an “author of an extremely abusive situation emotionally mentally” in a 2024 Instagram Live.
Niko’s death has reignited discussions about Brian’s relationship with his children. While he embraces his stepchildren Julia and Jack and son Brian Kainoa Makoa Jr. with wife Leilani Mendoza his rejection of his eldest kids has drawn criticism. Niko’s talent shone through his work with artists like TLC and Ray J and performances with his father and brother in their group MCKNIGHT. His loss is a stark reminder of unresolved family pain.
