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Brian McKnight breaks silence on estranged son’s death at 32… and lashes out at another family member

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In simpler terms, Brian McKnight recently spoke up following the sad passing of his son, Niko McKnight, who was only 32 years old.

On the memorable Thursday we all recall, I shared the heartbreaking news that my dear friend and colleague Niko took his final breath on May 29th, after bravely battling cancer for an exhausting two years. This information was confirmed by Claude McKnight through a poignant post across social media platforms.

When talking about his deceased nephew, Claude kindly requested that people avoid discussing Niko’s relationship with his father Brian, or any personal family matters.

However, Brian publicly criticized Claude’s insensitive revelation regarding Niko’s passing, marking his first public comment on the matter, on Tuesday via an Instagram post.

He accused Claude of making a ‘mockery’ of Niko’s passing by speaking out.

Brian started by expressing his disapproval of Claude Mcknight’s boastful and tasteless TikTok post about Niko’s death. In Brian’s view, it was not appropriate for Claude to make such an announcement, especially given the situation. Instead of allowing Niko’s passing to be honored with respect and dignity, Claude inserted himself into the matter.

Instead, it’s transformed into something akin to a carnival, a travesty of what was once lived, turning this catastrophe into a theatrical spectacle reminiscent of a reality TV program.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Claude for comment. 

He added: ‘As those events were taking place, my family and I returned to Maui and held a private ceremony to celebrate his life and all the wonderful moments we shared together.’

On Tuesday, Brian, who had restricted comments on his Instagram post, later asserted various statements about methods he supposedly attempted to aid his strained son throughout his cancer struggle.

Previously, when we conversed, we assured him we’d extend every available resource, had a renowned oncologist ready, and a team of specialists prepared to deliver care privately within our home.

He and his mother chose not to participate, and the avenue for conversation always stayed accessible up until his passing, according to his claim.

Brian then took aim at his ex-wife Julie McKnight, who is Niko’s mother.

To the one who refers to herself as a ‘mama bear’, I hope divine compassion finds its way to your spirit, for preventing him from accepting aid and denying him the chance to communicate in that particular manner.

Despite their long period apart, Brian asserted that his conscience is unburdened and he believes that God is aware of the genuine facts about the situation.

‘It brings me immense comfort to believe that God fully comprehends the truth and the entirety of the situation. I am deeply grateful for the tranquility God has bestowed upon me. I’ve surrendered all my concerns to Him. I can say with confidence, my conscience is clear. The only judgement that truly matters is God’s.’ – he penned.

We’re deeply grateful to God and appreciative of your sympathy, as we’ve reached the end of a difficult period in our lives, and our family is forever thankful.

I appreciate all of you who have consistently adhered to the truth since its inception, not allowing falsehoods, misleading information, or defamation to cloud your judgement.

I owe a debt of gratitude to those who have stood firm on the truth from the outset and refused to let false claims, misinformation, or character assassination sway their beliefs.

He ended his post by quoting a passage from the Bible, specifically 2 Corinthians 1:3, which reads, “God bless him—even Jesus Christ’s Father, the source of all compassion and the God who provides comfort to us all.

Brian also read his statement aloud in a corresponding Instagram video.

The video showcased videos and pictures, which appeared to be from the vicinity of Brian’s residence on Maui. One snapshot clearly displayed a Hennessy bottle buried in the sand.

Claude confirmed his nephew Niko’s death in a TikTok video posted on Thursday, May 29.

Five months prior to his death, Niko had revealed that he was fighting stage 4 colon cancer.

Claude discussed his nephew, and he kindly requested that fans refrain from commenting on Niko’s relationship with his father Brian, or any personal family matters.

In a TikTok video, his uncle shared that Niko has been courageously fighting cancer for about two years now, and he’s experiencing a range of emotions. Also in the video, his uncle described Niko as an extraordinary child with a unique charm, an insatiable curiosity, and incredible skills.

‘He was an exceptional vocalist and guitarist, a gifted photographer, and simply the kind of person who made any gathering brighter. Sadly, he is no longer among us.’

Previously, Brian referred to his biological offspring as ‘evil’ and ‘offspring of sin’, a comment that sparked significant public outrage.

When Brian made his public announcement disowning his four older children, Brian Jr., Niko, Briana, and Clyde, it was Niko who turned to his old social media platform, previously Twitter, to express further on the family turmoil. He stated that all he yearned for was to hear his father express love for him during his final moments in the hospital as he battled cancer complications.

Claude, who mentioned he was pondering over sharing posts throughout the day regarding the heartbreaking demise of his nephew, expressed in his TikTok video: ‘As time went by, it struck me, why wouldn’t I share about this? This very morning, I discovered that my beloved nephew Niko McNight had departed.’

In the video, he chose to discuss the family issues: “Let me tell you something. Frankly, I’m not entirely sure what transpired. I’ve witnessed certain events and heard stories from everyone involved. I make an effort not to pass judgment, but rather show love towards each person because it seems like there was a lot of pain – or perhaps the pain hasn’t been fully resolved yet.

He said that Niko had ‘a lot eating at him for a long long long time.’

It’s possible that my actions played a part in what transpired with Niko. However, what I am certain of is that he’s now free from his suffering. This means that I can take joy in the fact that he no longer has to endure chemotherapy, radiation, and all the other hardships. I simply want to lift up this young man and say that we will meet again someday. Niko, I love you.

Claude titled the video as follows: ‘I’m heartbroken over my nephew’s death. I kindly ask that if you choose to comment, please express your thoughts with love rather than discussing any rumors or speculation about my brother’s relationship with his children. Thank you.’

On a post on her Instagram last Friday, Niko’s mom, Julie, revealed the sad news of his demise. She included a heartwarming picture featuring Niko and her other son, Brian McKnight Jr., in the update.

With deep sorrow, Julie McKnight and her family confirm the death of their beloved son, Cole Nikolas McKnight, affectionately known as ‘Niko,’ on May 29th, 2025. Nikolas was a treasured spouse, son, sibling, grandchild, uncle, and nephew. His kindness, humor, and love left an indelible mark on everyone who crossed his path. Nikolas was a self-taught artist in both music and photography. His departure has left an unfillable void in the hearts of his family and all who cherished him.

Julie McKnight kindly requests seclusion and ongoing prayers as her family faces a tremendously challenging period. The McKnights are deeply moved by the heartfelt affection and backing from friends, admirers, and the general public.

His brother Brian Jr. shared a photo with his children and Niko on his Instagram stories on Friday.

Niko revealed his cancer diagnosis on January 16, 2024 via his Instagram.

Last year, he posted an image taken from his hospital bed and said: ‘Many have inquired – here I am, ready to face it. Indeed, I’ve been diagnosed with cancer – quite a wild journey so far. However, the situation seems more promising now than it was previously, so let’s toast to that!’

A heartfelt message: “A big thank you to everyone who supports me, especially my wonderful wife @phoenixelbow who has been instrumental in helping me through tough times (more on that later). Let’s continue moving forward and remember to always keep a hopeful thought for me. I believe brighter days are ahead! And please, don’t treat me differently. I need your love and support now more than ever.

In December, Niko gave an update on his cancer battle, sharing a candid note to his Instagram page.

Over the last 2-3 months, I’ve been experiencing the best well-being I’ve had since my hospital discharge last year. It feels like I’m gradually understanding and taking control of my life. While anxiety is still a part of me, it’s certainly not going anywhere. However, I’m now sleeping through the night again, and I no longer experience PTSD when eating. It’s incredible! For three months straight, I didn’t eat anything at all. Living on Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) for that long definitely takes its toll. But now, I can see a glimmer of light from beyond the woods. I’m not out yet, but things are looking hopeful so far. He shared a collection of photos from the recent past to illustrate his progress.

Thirteen months have passed since the public airing of Niko’s family drama, which was triggered by Brian labeling his children as ‘evil.’

In April 2024, Brian encountered strong criticism on social media when he referred to his biological children as ‘wicked’ and ‘fruits of sin’, a statement that gained attention prior to Niko and Julie sharing their thoughts.

In a recent Instagram Q&A session, the R&B artist responded to a supporter who approved of his decision to disown publicly four children (Brian Jr., Niko, Briana, and Clyde) due to his belief that malevolent influences were present within certain family members.

McKnight acknowledged and appreciated the fan’s comment, stating, ‘I want to give a shout-out to this guy here. He truly understands.’

To truly embrace a fulfilling life, it’s crucial to purge not just external negativities, but also those deep-seated within yourself. Sometimes, this means letting go of self-imposed limitations or toxic habits that hinder your personal growth.

In response to a fan suggesting the singer was defying God, McKnight clarified, ‘God wasn’t addressing offspring born from sinful circumstances, which is what we’re discussing here.’

Supporters swiftly criticized the Grammy-nominated artist, as one remarked, “This is incredibly distasteful. I can’t believe it; what on earth is this blasphemous and offensive piece of work?

A different person added, “Whenever Brian McKnight becomes popular again, I feel like crying because I once adored his music so much. However, shaking my head, I can no longer back him.

Not every child comes from a marriage, yet why label them as ‘children of sin’? It seems that the author identifies themselves as a ‘product of sin.’ However, this could be rephrased more tactfully as:

* Not all children are born to married parents, but should we refer to them as offspring of wrongdoing? The writer appears to have referred to themselves as a product of transgression.

Or more casually:

* Not every kid has two married parents, so why call these kids ‘sinspawn’? Seems like the author called themselves a ‘sinspawn.’

Niko and Niko’s mom – Brian’s ex-wife Julie McKnight – fired back at Brian soon after.

In a recent post on The Shaderoom, as reported by Page Six, I, a lifestyle expert, shared my perspective: “I’m being called ‘evil’ now? That’s quite something! Remember when I was the one tasked with clearing out his used condoms from the bathroom before Lisa arrived at 15? Well, apparently the tables have turned.

He made an additional note, stating: ‘The individual who falsified signatures using our names is extremely malicious, quite fashionably so.’

Previously, Niko had become accustomed to using X, which was previously recognized as Twitter. He openly acknowledged that he, along with brothers Brian Jr., Briana, and Clyde, had been misbehaving in the past. However, he emphasized that his sisters deserved more than their past behavior suggested.

Niko wrote, ‘They shouldn’t receive such blatant disregard. Feel free to hate us every day. However, one cannot continuously behave abominably without facing consequences, given what we all know.’

In simpler terms, Niko once prevented a man from going to federal prison. He didn’t reveal any more details. However, despite everything that happened, he still loves him deeply because he sees his father in him somewhere. But now, the man is like a drone, and it makes Niko incredibly sad. Miss you, Dad, he added at the time.

He additionally admitted in a different post that he was ‘incredibly pampered’, yet he’s making efforts to address his flaws.

Back in April 2024, Niko expressed his final heartfelt plea on platform X, yearning for his father to express his love – a sentiment I regret to say, he allegedly denied.

In that moment, he disclosed that he was in the hospital because of difficulties arising from his cancer, and was critically ill. His deepest desire at the time was to reconcile with his father and receive assurance of his love.

In a critical moment when I was close to dying due to cancer-related issues in the hospital, all I yearned for was to forgive and listen to him express his love for me. However, he wasn’t able to simply say those words at that time, and it’s a wound that still hurts deeply, as Niko put it.

The following day, Niko penned: “Occasionally, I ponder whether my being near death is a consequence of my father’s karma. Perhaps, if something happens to me, it could free him from the clutches of the wickedness that binds him.

Julie also challenged Brian and said she was proud of their two sons.

‘Regardless if it’s a difficult experience like illness or someone causing trouble in your life, the aim seems to be holding you back, often when you’ve stopped feeding their negativity. This is usually because they thrive in abusive situations, emotional and mental, that they have created.’ (Instagram post)

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: “When the spotlight is suddenly shifted elsewhere, it can feel akin to a child having a tantrum because they’re not accustomed to sharing the limelight anymore.” (Julie)

Approximately half a year has passed, and Niko penned: ‘Each day, I find myself filled with shame over how events unfolded with our Father. When one encounters a predicament like mine, it swiftly becomes clear what truly counts. Above all else, family holds the greatest importance. I yearn for my family deeply.’

In 2017, when the singer tied the knot with Leilani McKnight, he gained the role of stepfather to Julia and Jack McPhee.

Their first son together, Brian Kainoa Makoa Jr., was born in 2022.

By the close of 2023, McKnight marked the accomplishment of his stepdaughter, Julia, earning a master’s degree. This led to fresh conversations about his bond with his biological children, as he expressed his pride on Instagram.

In response, McKnight shared a Weekly Replies video on Instagram, during which he called Julia his only daughter.

In October 2023, a heated family dispute peaked when McKnight faced criticism for legally designating himself as the senior in relation to his newborn son, Brian Kainoa Makoa Jr., despite him being senior to his elder son, also named Brian Jr., causing quite a stir within the family.

In a post on Instagram, the music producer revealed his new album and possibly upset some fans with the dual nature of the announcement.

He added a vintage-hued picture of young Brian Jr. and announced the record’s name, “McKnighttime Lullabies: A Bedtime Collection for My Boy.”

This version aims to convey the same meaning using simpler language while maintaining a conversational tone.

I am thrilled to present to the world our son, Brian Kainoa Makoa Jr., who is the inspiration behind my latest album,” he expressed.

McKnight noted that his son carries the suffix ‘JR.’, as I’m equally pleased to disclose that I’ve legally adjusted my name to perfectly align with my legacy.

He mentioned that his official name has changed to ‘BRIAN KAINOA MAKOA MCKNIGHT SR.’, and then excitedly announced to his followers that his new album is currently accessible.

‘MCKNIGHTtime LULLABIES’ the songs of a father to his namesake available now!’

He used a variety of hashtags such as ‘#iloveourlife’, ‘#babybrian’, ‘#mylegacy’, ‘#junior’, and ‘#familyfirst’.

The announcement sparked criticism from multiple commentators, causing McKnight to ultimately restrict his comments on the post.

One individual expressed disapproval with, ‘Prioritizing family, I guess?’, while some labeled it as ‘small-minded’ and ‘unsavory’.

A thoughtful well-wisher extended their congratulations, yet expressed their belief that he had erred.

They expressed their hope for the well-being and tranquility of your family. Changing one’s name does not, nor can it, eliminate what has previously occurred.

One blunt comment urged him to ‘grow some balls and reconcile with your first-born children.’

Another person simply made it clear that they were no longer a fan.

However, certain individuals who commented on the post found no issue with McKnight’s decision to change his name and viewed it as completely normal and unremarkable.

One fan penned, “It’s beautiful to see you transforming into a better individual.” This entire journey of yours, starting anew, is truly a gift. Kudos on the fresh chapter in your life, symbolizing a new beginning.

Another suggested it wasn’t worth the effort to keep his relations strong with his older children.

Occasionally, a person may grow weary of the struggle. People yearn for tranquility! Stop harassing this individual! They penned down their defense.

McKnight’s eldest son expressed his thoughts on Instagram Stories when a fan proposed he alter his name to disassociate from his father, as reported by Page Six.

McKnight Jr. expressed that he proudly upholds the surname passed down from his ancestors and intends to maintain it for his own son as well. He finds troubling the excessive level of self-deprecation, which has escalated into a mental health issue.

We can only hope for the best for that man, and for my future little brother, whom we’ll gladly accept when he understands who his true family is,” he added on.

‘A lasting impact isn’t determined by a name; it’s rooted in the quality of individuals. Soon enough, you’ll be able to tell who stands on the correct side of things, as there’s no avoiding the events that are about to unfold.’

Brian had two children, Brian Jr. and Niko, with his former wife Julie McKnight; their marriage concluded in a divorce in 2003.

Apart from his own children, Briana and Clyde, he is also parenting Jack and Julia, who belong to his spouse Leilani from her past relationships.

It appeared as though the performer was signaling that he no longer regards his older children as members of his family.

His Instagram bio lists him as the father to ‘Julia, Jack, Kekoa Matteo and Brian Kainoa Makoa.’

Kekoa was the intended name for a child that McKnight and Leilani lost to a miscarriage in 2022.

Currently, as of May 30, Brian’s Instagram profile continues to identify him as the father of ‘Julia, Jack, Kekoa Matteo, and Brian Kainoa Makoa McKnight Jr.’

About two weeks back, someone wondered about the number of sons Brian has. In response, he stated that he has three – Jack, Brian (himself), and Kekoa.

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2025-06-05 17:23

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