Tensions are rising within the McKnight family following the death of Cole “Niko” McKnight, son of singer Brian McKnight, who passed away on May 29, 2025, at the age of 32 after a two-year battle with cancer.
On TikTok, Brian’s brother Claude McKnight—a member of the vocal group Take 6—shared an emotional video tribute describing Niko as “quirky, curious, and ridiculously talented.” Though he acknowledged the family’s strained relationships, Claude emphasized “healing and love.”
Brian Calls the Tribute “Tasteless”
However, Brian McKnight took to Instagram to express his outrage, calling Claude’s decision to publicly share the news “tasteless” and “self-aggrandizing.”
“A big big thanks to Claude McKnight’s tasteless and self-aggrandizing announcement on TikTok,” Brian wrote.
“That frankly was not his to make… He inserted himself and used Niko’s death as an opportunity, instead of letting him pass with respect and dignity.”
The Grammy-nominated singer went on to accuse his brother of turning a “tragedy into a reality show-type drama.”
Brian Says He Offered Help Before Niko’s Death
In the same Instagram post, Brian addressed the public’s perception of his estranged relationship with Niko, claiming he and his current family “held a private memorial in Maui.” He added that he had offered Niko extensive medical care:
“We had the number one oncologist on deck for him and a team of specialists on standby with private care in our home. He and his mother declined.”
Family Rift in the Spotlight
The McKnight family has faced public scrutiny for years due to Brian’s estrangement from several of his biological children, including Niko. This latest conflict, sparked by a public death announcement, has only further highlighted the family’s fractured dynamics.
Despite the controversy, Claude’s TikTok video has received an outpouring of support from fans who admired his vulnerability and tribute to Niko.
Final Thoughts
While both brothers mourn the loss of Niko in different ways, their public feud has reignited conversations about privacy, grief, and family estrangement. Whether their differences can be resolved remains uncertain—but what’s clear is that the loss of Cole “Niko” McKnight has left a lasting impact.
Rest in Peace, Niko 🕊️
Leave your thoughts below. Should family tragedies stay private?
