Music icon Gladys Knight has bravely shared her harrowing experience of emotional and financial abuse at the hands of her late husband, William McDowell, and her son, Shanga Hankerson. In a candid interview, the soul legend revealed the deep scars left by years of manipulation and control.
The Painful Truth Unveiled
Knight, known as the "Empress of Soul," disclosed that McDowell, whom she married in 2001, subjected her to relentless emotional abuse. She described how he isolated her from friends and family while exploiting her finances. Her son, Shanga Hankerson, allegedly continued the pattern of abuse after McDowell's death in 2017.
A Mother's Heartbreak
"It was like living in a prison," Knight confessed. "The people who were supposed to love and protect me were the ones hurting me the most." The singer revealed how Hankerson allegedly took control of her business affairs, mismanaging her finances and even putting her famed chicken-and-waffles restaurant at risk.
Finding Strength in Survival
Now free from the toxic relationships, Knight is focusing on healing and using her platform to raise awareness about domestic abuse. "I want other women to know they're not alone," she said. "No amount of fame or success makes you immune to this kind of pain."
The seven-time Grammy winner continues to perform, channeling her experiences into her music. Fans have praised her courage in speaking out, with many calling her story an important reminder that abuse can happen to anyone.
