Brian McKnight‘s estranged son Cole Nikolas “Niko” McKnight has died.

He was 32.

The younger McKnight died more than a year after revealing he was battling cancer.

“It is with profound sadness that Julie McKnight and family announce the passing of her beloved son Cole Nikolas McKnight, affectionately known as ‘Niko’ on Thursday, May 29, 2025,” Julie McKnight, Niko McKnight’s mom, posted to Instagram on May 30. “Nikolas was a cherished husband, son, brother, grandson, uncle, and nephew whose warmth, laughter, and love touched the lives of all who knew him.

“Nikolas was a self taught artist of music and photography. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family and all those who held him dear. Julie McKnight has asked for privacy and continued prayers as the family navigates this incredibly difficult time. Mama Bear and the entire family appreciate the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the public.”

Brian McKnight took to social media about his son’s death, while also taking a shot at Nico McKnight’s uncle.“A big thanks to Claude McKnight’s tasteless and self-aggrandizing announcement on TikTok, that frankly was not his to make, in my opinion,” McKnight posted on Instagram. “He inserted himself and used Niko’s death as an opportunity, instead of letting him pass with respect and dignity. It has instead turned into a circus, a mockery of a life now lost, making this tragedy into a reality show type drama.“While that was unfolding my family and I flew home to Maui and had a private memorial remembering him, and all the good times. The last time he and I spoke, we offered him all the help we could provide. 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. The door of communication was open and remained open until his death. To the self proclaimed “mama bear” may God have mercy on your soul for not allowing him to accept that help and not allowing him to use that line of communication.”Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.