Gladys Knight | Source: Getty Images
Gladys Knight, one of the most iconic voices of her era, has had a long and successful career. With over seven decades in the music industry, she is known for her Grammy-winning hits like “Midnight Train to Georgia” and “Neither One of Us.” But beyond her success, Knight’s personal life has been just as eventful.
Gladys Knight performs on January 22, 1975, in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images
After enduring three failed marriages, Knight eventually found stability with a corporate consultant 14 years her junior. But before she found happiness, Knight endured the loss of her eldest child. Let’s trace her roots, beginning with her early years as a child prodigy who found her voice — and her purpose — in music.
Early Life and Rise to Fame: From Child Star to Iconic Soul Singer
Knight was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where her musical talent became apparent at an early age. At just 4 years old, she gave her first public performance at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. Her mother, recognizing her potential, took steps to nurture her talent.
At age 7, she entered Knight into “Ted Mack’s Amateur Hour,” a nationally televised talent competition. She ended up winning the $2,000 grand prize, marking the beginning of her music career.
Encouraged by her early success, Knight and her family members — her brother Bubba, sister Brenda, and cousins William and Elenor Guest — formed a singing group, The Pips. By 1959, the group underwent changes in its lineup, with distant cousin Edward Patten replacing Brenda and Elenor.
They rebranded as Gladys Knight & the Pips, a name that would become iconic. The group performed in venues throughout the South, navigating the challenges of racial segregation while building a fanbase. Their performances led to a series of successful recordings, including several well-known hits.
Gladys Knight and the Pips pose for a photo in 1964 | Source: Getty Images
Over the years, they recorded 10 No. 1 R&B hits and received multiple Grammy Awards. Their synchronized dance routines and smooth harmonies became hallmarks of their performances. After three decades of success, the group disbanded in 1989, and Knight embarked on a solo career.
As a solo artist, Knight continued her career in music while also taking on roles in film and television. She appeared in productions such as “Hollywood Homicide” and “The Butler,” further expanding her influence in the entertainment industry.
Although her place in music history was firmly established, she was experiencing challenges in her family life and marriage.
Her Marriages and Love Lessons
Knight’s personal life included three marriages before she found lasting love. Each relationship brought its own set of challenges, with all three ending in divorce. Her first marriage was to her high school sweetheart, James Newman, in 1960.
The marriage was prompted by a pregnancy at the age of 16, but she experienced a miscarriage while on tour. Despite this setback, Knight and Newman remained together and had two children. However, Newman’s battle with drug addiction got in the way, and in 1973, the couple divorced.
Knight married her second husband, Barry Hankerson, in 1974. Their marriage produced one child, but it was marked by complications that ultimately led to a lengthy and contentious divorce, which was finalized in 1979.
Gladys Knight and Barry Hankerson in a scene from the film "Pipe Dreams," in 1976 | Source: Getty Images
Her third marriage was to Les Brown, a well-known motivational speaker. They wed in 1995, but their relationship ended just two years later, with the couple divorcing in 1997.
Reflecting on the experience, Knight later stated, “We were having problems, yeah. So does every relationship. So does every marriage. And it’s what you choose to do about it that makes the difference.”
Les Brown pictured on September 22, 2018, in Atlanta, Georgia | Source: Getty Images
Knight has spoken openly about love and its significance in life. When asked why her music often revolves around love despite her past relationships, she responded, “Love is what makes the world go around.[..] There is nothing else like it. I know that is what everybody is striving to feel.”
Knight never stopped believing in love, but before she could find her happily ever after, she experienced one of the most profound losses.
The Loss of Her Son, James ‘Jimmy’ Newman
On July 10, 1999, Knight’s eldest son, James “Jimmy” Newman passed away. He died of heart failure at the age of 36 in his home in Las Vegas, Nevada. His passing was a significant blow to Knight and her family, as Jimmy played an essential role not just as her son, but also as a key figure in her professional life.
Gladys Knight and son Jimmy Newman attend a press conference on April 10, 1989 | Source: Getty Images
Jimmy had established himself as a pivotal force in his mother’s career, managing her through his company, Newman Management. He played a central role in launching Many Roads, a specialty record label that supported Knight’s gospel album “Many Different Roads” and aimed to promote other gospel artists.
His sudden passing left a void in both his family and his professional circle. He was survived by his wife, Michelene, and his five children — two daughters and three sons. For Knight, the loss was deeply personal. But with her reliance on faith and family, she pushed through one of the most difficult periods of her life.
Gladys Knight at Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem on June 19, 2021 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
It was after this period of grief that Knight would eventually find a sense of peace, comfort, and enduring love with the man who would later become her fourth husband and life partner.
Gladys Knight with her current husband pictured on November 24, 2010 | Source: Getty Images
Finding Love with a Younger Man: From Friendship to Marriage
Two years after the death of her son, Knight married William McDowell, a corporate consultant, on April 12, 2001. Their wedding was an intimate seaside ceremony held in Santa Monica, California, attended by 80 family members and close friends. One of Knight’s remaining sons gave her away, showcasing their bond.
Knight and McDowell had known each other for nearly a decade before they started dating. Despite being 14 years younger than Knight, McDowell became her most enduring partner, and over two decades later, their marriage is still going strong.
The couple attributes the strength of their marriage to their faith in God. Explaining how they navigate challenges in their relationship, Knight stated, “We put Him first. If you’ve got a problem and don’t know how to do something, you have to look up.”
McDowell’s presence in Knight’s life extends beyond being her spouse. His Instagram bio reflects his passion for music, business, and perseverance. It reads, “Music is in my soul, management of any business in my head. All together with talent and sweat anything is possible.”
On their wedding anniversary in 2019, Knight shared a message of appreciation for McDowell on Instagram, writing, “My life is so much better with you in it. ‘You’re the best thing that ever happened to me.’ Happy Anniversary babe! ❤️😘”
The relationship between Knight and McDowell remains her longest-lasting marriage. Their shared faith, public expressions of love, and mutual support are all factors that have kept their union strong for over two decades. Their love extends to their family life, where their roles as grandparents bring even more joy and fulfillment into their lives.
Gladys Knight and William McDowell at Tyler Perry Studios' grand opening gala on October 5, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia | Source: Getty Images
A Full House and 80 Years of Gratitude
Family plays a vital role in Knight’s life. As a grandmother, she enjoys being surrounded by her grandchildren, who bring life and energy into her home. Speaking about her role as a grandmother, Knight stated, “When I’m home, I have a houseful of kids.”
Her husband also plays an active role in the lives of the grandchildren. Knight revealed that “They love him the best!” and shared that he takes on the responsibility of helping guide them on the right path. “He’ll do anything to keep them on the right track,” she said, highlighting his role as a dedicated figure in their family.
This family-oriented environment reflects the support system that Knight has relied on throughout her life. In earlier years, her mother played a key role in raising Knight’s children while she pursued her music career. Now, with McDowell by her side, the family-first tradition continues.
In 2023, Knight celebrated a significant milestone — her 80th birthday. To mark the occasion, she shared a reflective message on Instagram. Her message read, “80 years of beautiful life, love, service, celebration, achievement, falling down, faith, fun, lessons, blessings, friendship, collaboration, soul sharing and more.”
The photos and message captured her gratitude for the journey she has lived, from her early rise to fame. She also thanked her friends, family, and fans for their love and support over the years. “I am so grateful to celebrate another amazing birthday,” she shared. “I am honored to live this wonderful life.”
