Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 - Page 49

48. Niko McKnight

Niko McKnight, the estranged son of R&B star Brian McKnight, has died at the age of 32 after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. The news was shared by Brian’s brother, Claude McKnight, in an emotional TikTok tribute on May 30, 2025.

Claude revealed his nephew’s passing, expressing his heartbreak while also highlighting Niko’s remarkable life and spirit. “He was quirky, curious, ridiculously talented, and someone you always wanted to be around,” he shared. Claude praised Niko’s skill as an exceptional singer, guitarist, photographer, and creative soul.

Niko first disclosed his diagnosis in January 2024 in an Instagram post candidly captioned, “Your boy got the big C.” Despite his struggles, he expressed hope and gratitude, writing, “Things are looking better now… shouts to everyone in my corner.” His wife was among his strongest supporters, whom he credited for “saving his life.”

Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 - Page 49 was originally published on blackamericaweb.com