Gladys Knight, the 82-year-old Motown icon, has announced a reduction in her performance schedule following concerns raised by fans about her on-stage presence. Video clips from recent concerts have shown the singer, known as the Empress of Soul, appearing disoriented and letting her backup singers carry much of the performance. During a July 25 show at the Hollywood Bowl, Knight was seen turning her back to the audience and walking off stage.
Knight released a statement on Thursday stating her decision to "ease into fewer performances" as she transitions to a new phase of her career and life. She expressed a desire to spend more time on projects with her husband and visiting her grandchildren. "I am immensely grateful to all of you and send my eternal love back to you," Knight stated in her message to fans.
Amid the fan concerns, a source told TMZ that some tour personnel worry Knight is exhibiting symptoms of dementia. However, her husband and manager, William McDowell, stated that she has not yet been evaluated by a doctor for the condition. McDowell, who is 33 years younger than Knight, indicated that while she still wishes to perform, they will be consulting a doctor to assess her health. He is reportedly monitoring her September 5 show to decide if further dates should be canceled.
McDowell is also reportedly developing a performance facility near their North Carolina home to allow Knight to continue performing without extensive travel. Some individuals involved with her tour have described the situation as "tragic" and believe it is "shameful" that the singer is being compelled to perform when circumstances may not be suitable.
This situation comes after a previous public disagreement last year, when Knight's son, Shanga Hankerson, accused McDowell of elder abuse and of taking advantage of his mother. Knight publicly denied these allegations at the time, assuring fans of her well-being and stating that her health and performances had been "misrepresented." Hankerson had previously voiced concerns about his mother's demanding tour schedule, calling it "detrimental" to her health and expressing a desire for her to not be "on tour on a tour bus wondering where she’s at."
Knight, a seven-time Grammy winner, is celebrated for hits such as "Midnight Train to Georgia," "License to Kill," and "You're the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me."