Days after winning an $8.8 million defamation case against his ex-wife, Julie McKnight, Brian McKnight has had a major HBCU performance pulled following overwhelming backlash from fans.
The singer was tapped as the headliner for Claflin University’s Presidential Scholarship Gala, but following outrage expressed by fans over McKnight’s treatment of several of his biological children, the HBCU revealed that they are now seeking another performer.
“Claflin University values and respects the perspectives of our constituents and stakeholders,” said Claflin University President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack in a recent statement.
“We take your concerns regarding the artist for the Scholarship Gala seriously and are currently exploring options. Thank you for your loyal and continued support as we work to ensure this event is a beacon of light for our institution while raising needed funds to support student scholarships.”
In May 2025, McKnight’s son, Niko McKnight, passed away after a year-long battle with cancer. “The One Last Cry” singer had reportedly been estranged for years from Niko, Brian McKnight Jr., and his children, Briana McKnight and Clyde McKnight.
McKnight made several inflammatory remarks about the children he shared with his ex-wife, even calling them a “product of sin,” on Instagram in response to a fan calling him out for disowning his son. He later denied abandoning any of his children.