Niko McKnight, singer-musician and estranged son of Brian McKnight and ex-wife Julie, died on Thursday (May 29) following a battle with cancer.
His older brother, Brian McKnight Jr., has since paid tribute to his “favorite everything” on Instagram.
The fellow singer wrote, “I’ll live the rest of my life in a constant state of disbelief. My beautiful baby brother, I will love you until this plain ceases to exist. There is no me without you, so living just feels out of whack. The balance is gone, and will never be the same.”
He described the “entire world” as “bleak, and dim without you.” McKnight Jr. added, “I was the luckiest big brother in the universe. It almost seemed unfair at times.”
He continued, “Though I’ll never understand this, I’m so glad you are no longer in pain, and are now in the aether, playing upon the string theory we both believe in. Wait for me there. This is now officially a Niko stan page. Brothers in arms. Forever. Long live Johnny Boy.”
News of Niko’s death was confirmed by their mother, Julie, in a statement.
“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. 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,” the statement read.
Julie McKnight with sons, Brian Jr. and Niko
Brian McKnight Jr./Instagram
Page Six reported that their estranged father “did not contact or see Niko” before his death. The outlet noted that Niko was surrounded by “an abundance of love and support from those who truly mattered,” including his mother, brother, wife Carla, and other loved ones.
The anonymous source explained, “[Niko] was not alone, and he was deeply cherished every step of the way.”
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