Gladys Knight's Son Fears Manager is 'Working Her to Death'

Gladys Knight's son, Shanga Hankerson, has expressed grave concerns that her husband and manager, William McDowell, is pushing the 82-year-old singer too hard. Hankerson stated, 'My belief and fear is that he intends to literally try to work her until she passes away.' This comes after Knight announced in late August plans to reduce her touring schedule. Reports emerged of Knight appearing confused and exhausted during a September 5th concert in Tulsa, with one attendee claiming her set was cut short. Despite this, Knight performed again four days later in Indiana, with further dates scheduled. Knight's representatives have declined to comment on her future touring plans. Last year, Hankerson's accusations of mental and financial abuse against McDowell were dismissed as unfounded by Knight and her team, though McDowell acknowledged she experiences good and bad days.