Brian McKnight’s Estranged Son Niko McKnight Dies at 32
Tragic news has emerged that Brian McKnight’s estranged son, Niko McKnight, has passed away at the age of 32 after a long battle with cancer. According to a report from Daily Mail, Niko’s death was announced by his uncle, Claude, on Friday via TikTok.
### Niko’s Cancer Battle and Legacy
Niko had revealed his cancer diagnosis on January 16, 2024, via his Instagram account. At the time, he shared an image from a hospital bed, writing that he had been diagnosed with the “big C” and was undergoing treatment. Despite his struggles, Niko remained positive and shared updates on his cancer battle, expressing his gratitude for the love and support of his family and friends.
### Family Drama and Estrangement
The news of Niko’s passing comes amid a backdrop of family drama and estrangement. Brian McKnight, Niko’s father, had previously faced public backlash after referring to his biological children as “evil” and “products of sin.” This led to a very public feud between Brian and his children, including Niko, who took to social media to express his feelings about the situation.
### Tributes and Condolences
Niko’s mother, Julie McKnight, shared a statement via her Instagram page on Friday announcing his passing, adding a sweet snap with him and her other son, Brian McKnight Jr. His brother Brian Jr. also shared a photo with his children and Niko on his Instagram stories on Friday.
According to Daily Mail, Claude, who said he was contemplating about posting all day about the tragic loss of his nephew, said in his TikTok video: “As the day wore on I realized, how could I not post about this? This morning I found out that my nephew Niko McKnight passed away.”
### Relationship with His Family
The family feud hit a high note in October 2023 when Brian McKnight was slammed for changing his name to become a senior to his newborn son, Brian Kainoa Makoa Jr. — although he was already a senior to his eldest son, Brian Jr. The hitmaker made the announcement in an Instagram post that doubled as an album promo.
As reported by Daily Mail, Niko shared his dying wish on X in April 2024, hoping that his father would tell him he loves him – which he said he refused to do. At the time, he said he was in the hospital due to complications from his cancer, and was on his deathbed – with his last wish being to bury the hatchet with his father and to hear he loves him.
### Conclusion
The music industry is mourning the loss of a talented young artist, and fans are paying tribute to Niko’s memory. As Daily Mail reports, Niko’s legacy will live on through his music and the memories of those who loved him. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
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